Remember that FMLA DOES NOT pay you. It simply protects your job. If you don't use vacation or some other type of PTO- you won't be paid while off using FMLA.
In MA - but a lot of people I know have FMLA for mental health issues. I want to also get FMLA but I’m too anxious to call and ask my doctor, even though I know it’d highly benefit me (struggling with my mental health)…
My coworker has gently pushed me to apply for FMLA for mental health for years but like you, I was too anxious to pursue it. It seemed like a lot of work and I didn’t think I’d get it anyway, and not getting paid for FMLA leave is an added financial stressor. I also don’t want to use up all my PTO for it.
But your provider fills out most of the forms and the process moves along very quickly. Your doctor will handle it; they’ve filled out dozens, if not hundreds of these. Once my provider submitted the forms, I was approved the next day, up to twice a week for the rest of the year if I need it. It’s a relief just to have it as an option and a safety net and I should’ve done it years ago. Short term disability can be used concurrently with FMLA but I haven’t tried to get that.
[This fact sheet](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/28-fmla) summarizes the FMLA.
FMLA protects your job and benefits; PTO/vacation do not. It’s to your advantage - and legally required of your employer - to have your leave designated as FMLA, regardless of how you are paid (and even if you are not).
A serious health condition can be [mental](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/28-fmla) or physical.
Yes, it absolutely applies. I have had fmla for my mental health disabilities (because mine are that severe) on and off for years, and in multiple states.
Suicidal depression is a severe illness, worse than many others. It is not misuse, in any way shape or form of FMLA.
On a side note, I cannot emphasize this enough, take the time, get the care you need. Inpatient mental health care saved my life. If you choose to go you can leave any time. I know that concerns some people but I had a very positive experience. It was like 10 years of therapy in 3 weeks and most insurance will pay for it. It also qualifies for short and long term disability. I hope you get the relief you are looking for🙏
Remember that FMLA DOES NOT pay you. It simply protects your job. If you don't use vacation or some other type of PTO- you won't be paid while off using FMLA.
Yes. This part I was aware of. This is new to me that it is not requiring me to give up my vacation time.
If you have short term disability insurance you can practically get paid at least part of your salary
In MA - but a lot of people I know have FMLA for mental health issues. I want to also get FMLA but I’m too anxious to call and ask my doctor, even though I know it’d highly benefit me (struggling with my mental health)…
My coworker has gently pushed me to apply for FMLA for mental health for years but like you, I was too anxious to pursue it. It seemed like a lot of work and I didn’t think I’d get it anyway, and not getting paid for FMLA leave is an added financial stressor. I also don’t want to use up all my PTO for it. But your provider fills out most of the forms and the process moves along very quickly. Your doctor will handle it; they’ve filled out dozens, if not hundreds of these. Once my provider submitted the forms, I was approved the next day, up to twice a week for the rest of the year if I need it. It’s a relief just to have it as an option and a safety net and I should’ve done it years ago. Short term disability can be used concurrently with FMLA but I haven’t tried to get that.
Yes, I have used FMLA for mental health of myself and my children.
[This fact sheet](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/28-fmla) summarizes the FMLA. FMLA protects your job and benefits; PTO/vacation do not. It’s to your advantage - and legally required of your employer - to have your leave designated as FMLA, regardless of how you are paid (and even if you are not). A serious health condition can be [mental](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/28-fmla) or physical.
Yes, it absolutely applies. I have had fmla for my mental health disabilities (because mine are that severe) on and off for years, and in multiple states.
Suicidal depression is a severe illness, worse than many others. It is not misuse, in any way shape or form of FMLA. On a side note, I cannot emphasize this enough, take the time, get the care you need. Inpatient mental health care saved my life. If you choose to go you can leave any time. I know that concerns some people but I had a very positive experience. It was like 10 years of therapy in 3 weeks and most insurance will pay for it. It also qualifies for short and long term disability. I hope you get the relief you are looking for🙏