Legal Question in Employment Law in Texas

I am in the middle of a huge problem. I am a new mom, just back to work. Diagnosis is post-partum depression and anxiety. Currently on medication and seeing a Psychologist and Psychiatrist. I am having panic attacks and other health issues due to the fear of losing my income and health benefits for family, as I am the primary. This is aggrevating the condition and I would gladly take FMLA, but used all leave time available when I gave birth. I have kept my co-workers in the dark, as I am desparately trying to "hold it together". It is a very touchy subject with me because I have trouble admitting that there is something "chemically" wrong with me. I have no problem seeking help, but my stressful and fast-paced job is only adding to my anxiety and I feel on the verge of a breakdown. The only thing that gets me through the day is suppressing everything because I need my income. My family and friends are very worried and say I should consider my health first. I am so torn, no matter what I do I feel like a bad mother. Bad for continuing to stay at my job, and bad for wanting to leave. Would I be eligible for UE if I left my job? Also, I thought one of the requirements was looking for another job, so how does that work if I can't work as recommended by my doctor? And then there's the issue of health benefits, can you please explain how COBRA works and if it would apply to me?

Thank you in advance

Stressed-out Mommy


Asked on 9/30/10, 4:25 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Stephens Stephens & Stephens

Always place your health and child's health first. Get help and do so immediately. Go to your obstetrician and get him to make a recommendation as to who you need to see and get in to see the psychiatrist, or whoever he recommends. Get a Script to give to your employer anad take off if that is what he recommends. Take a leave of absence if they will let you.

You can call the United Way at 411 and they will have a counselor they can send you to.

Call First Baptist Church Houston. at (713) 681-8000. They have professional counselors to help you.

Best wishes. .

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Answered on 10/06/10, 11:17 am


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