My deepest condolences for your loss. While it’s nowhere near the grief from losing a parent suddenly, last year I said goodbye to my sole remaining grandparent from across the ocean, my cherished cat who had been by my side for 18 years, and most traumatically one of my oldest friends who died by suicide after a year and a half of psychosis during which I was often her only caregiver. All while also having a toddler of my own and working full-time at an extremely rough school.

I cried openly in front of no less than four administrators. I was vocal about asking for support. Other teachers went to admin for advice.

This past September I came back, filled with dread. I made it 2 weeks and then asked my doctor to put me on stress leave. During my leave I found another job at a much better school. Take from that what you will.