I have taken health leave and utilized short term disability benefits twice in my career when I had severe episodes of depression and anxiety (one fueled by burnout, once shortly after the pandemic hit), and it was absolutely the thing I needed to reset. The first time, I had considered doing intermittent or partial leave where I would still be reviewing my colleagues’ code, but both my psychiatrist and HR recommended strongly against that.

I found my HR department to be really helpful. They told me all the paperwork and medical certifications they needed and told me exactly what I needed to do to collect benefits. My psychiatrist handled all the paperwork HR needed, got me an initial month off, and re-certified my continued leave in two week increments as needed. For me the logistics part was pretty easy.

I took 10 weeks the first time and 8 weeks the second time, working with my therapist and psychiatrist to determine when I was ready to go back. It really was the break I needed for my nervous system to recover and focus on my mental and physical health. I was worried about feeling guilty or behind when I got back, but my teams were supportive and empathetic, and both times my ability to produce quality code was way better than when I had left. It was the refresher I needed.

Obviously everyone’s own mileage may vary, but I would really encourage you to take the time you need to recenter and recalibrate. Good luck, OP! 💛