How to Get FMLA for Anxiety, Depression, or other Mental Health Issues (4 Easy Steps!)

[@Ask8613]

Make your dr appointment to do the paperwork BEFORE YOU ASK HR or you’ll end up having to restart the clock

[@JaayyyyO]

Do they have the fmla paperwork at your doctors office?

[@dianemary]

@@JaayyyyOdownload it from the government website

[@AnAcquiredTaste87]

I work in HR and can confirm all this information is accurate. Thank you.

[@tylerjellis]

Thank you! 🙂

[@neoasura]

Good video, some warnings though. Even though it's illegal to retaliate against you, it doesn't mean they won't try to make you jump through hoops and they will try to get you to slip up, even break one rule in terms of using fmla, so if you qualify, make sure you do everything exactly the way your fmla provider says, follow every rule. Don't do stupid things like go out partying and take facebook pics of it. Don't set a pattern Mon/Fri days off, if you use intermittent days, or else they could make you recertify and specifically ask your doctor why you were gone those days.

[@tylerjellis]

Thanks for the further tips! 🙂

[@sherrina8862]

Thank you for posting this. My supervisor has recommended this to me I just haven’t called. This helps me know what I need ahead of time!

[@tylerjellis]

Glad it was helpful!

[@1ledp621]

Is it possible to be granted 12 consecutive weeks off for sever anxiety/ depression from an extremely toxic/hostile work environment?

[@anthonysegura4020]

Wondering this myself

[@neoasura]

It depends on your employer and benefits. My doctor gave me a 6 week sick leave due to mental stress. My company had to abide by it. But in order to do it again, I would need a psych evaluation to get another one.

[@jerrygutierrez99]

This is a WC

[@bobbye4731]

@@neoasurathis happened to my colleague as well and he also got 6 weeks. Then after returning he got fired 3 weeks later. He is currently suing the company and I think he will have a very strong case

[@thelovelydrkeyx3250]

I've been off for a whole year paid FMLA.

[@antoniotolentino8108]

I wouldn’t misuse this I really need it I have psychotic depression and I am having long episodes of psychosis that is nearly impossible to work this would just help save my job when my depression gets extremely severe. plus my provider is talking about IOP and ECT so this would just make me feel so much better to have peace of mind for these type of treatments.

[@Auntie_Premed]

Great video! Very informative and helped me a lot.

[@tylerjellis]

Thanks!!

[@Thomas12793]

Can someone go to grad school while on FMLA?

[@MommasBoyCooking]

Great video

[@image0987]

Great video! I definitely have chronic condition, Anxiety & depression. Im nervous about speaking to my boss, he more then likely not going approve it 🤦🏽‍♀️ We also have less 50 employees.

[@jamelmoore3416]

What is your ask? Intermittent time off or continuous?

[@image0987]

​@@jamelmoore3416That may get approved, I know a co worker in a different dept who is doing that now. The dept I'm in alittle bit more depending and less staff. So we will see. 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@jamelmoore3416]

@@image0987 good luck

[@myeternalsin]

My PTSD triggers when I hear “Sedgwick” which is ironic when I need to check in with them and they go “how you feeling?”

[@jaypad6749]

I was approved for Intermittent FMLA to look after my mom who has cancer, do i need a doctors note everytime i need a day off even though i was approved?. The dr. Gave me 10 days a month.

[@michellemadrid3283]

No, when you need to call out, you just make sure you let your direct supervisor/HR know that you will be using that day for FMLA, HR tracks it. Some of my staff use intermittent FMLA for medical reasons

[@jama7379]

Amazing video and fantastic advice! Liked and subscribed! Thank you so much

[@B1az1ngSuN]

thank you man, I appreciate you giving your experience along with the advice.

[@brotherfin19]

This style of video is very helpful

[@audreyscott4926]

FMLA is federally mandated once approved by your doctor you just need to hand in your forms your job doesn't have to approve you because a lot of jobs won't

[@christinaoneill3136]

I am a full time employee with a 15 year old daughter that’s has depression and anxiety. She has been in a psychiatric hospital for the last 3 days. Over the past month I have has to leave work dealing with her mental health needs. Would this be considered something I could use fmla for? 10:58

[@tylerjellis]

This most definitely sounds like exactly what FMLA is meant for. Wishing you and your daughter all the best!

[@nicoleaviles5224]

My 1 year is 4/18. My doctor wants me to take 2 months off. I tested positive for mold illness. Already was approved to work from home. My supervisor is a bully and I’ve been just dealing but my stress & anxiety is really bad. It’s hindering me from getting any better. Do I tell them now or wait until my year? Thank You

[@tylerjellis]

I'm not entirely sure, but for FMLA I'd personally try and wait it out to the 1-year mark before requesting it... just to be 100% safe. With that said, if your doctor has told you something different (or approved you for something other than FMLA) I would definitely take their advice on how to proceed. I hope you feel better soon!

[@nicoleaviles5224]

@@tylerjellis Thank you! I decided to wait so I think I’m on the right track.

[@patrickpho198]

So I work for a company out of state and they have me work on a contract onsite. How does the 50 employee rule apply to me.

[@JamilaParham]

Do you need sign off from primary or therapist?

[@gabby3406]

I'm in America, and my primary told me to get the sign off from my specialist treating the condition I was requesting the leave for. I got my Psychiatric Nurse to fill it out.

[@chimerajackson7867]

Where do I get the FMLA forms from to give to my doctor?

[@jamelmoore3416]

@@chimerajackson7867 Usually from HR or whatever vendor they use to process FMLA.

[@giovanniatapparelcynergy489]

What if you have multiple jobs ( full time in both ) can you use FLMA at the same time for both ?

[@elissadeannashorts]

Not continuous... So I worked for my employer for 3 years. Left because I was moving and could not transfer. I left in October and got hired in June. Would that work or not? I had an extended stay in hospital and accumulated 3 no call no show.

[@LadyJpraise2024unbound]

I needed more about the essential functions of the job. My paperwork was denied bc doctor, they said my doctor didn't put the job functions down that I do. Even though I am undergoing treatment. Do we put a general statement down about lack of motivation, poor concentration etc.

[@tynaeabennett1568]

If you initiate the FMLA and short term disability process can your employer fire you before they are processed so they don’t have to pay the benefit?

[@mandia469]

Can i get fmla for fibroids

[@faithandflourish2025]

Yup familiar with Sedgewick 💡

[@JaayyyyO]

When you say treatment 2 days out of the year. What do you mean? What kind of treatment?

[@dawnblade6053]

Is there anyway to get fmla even if your job don't offer it? I have someone I know who really need it bad and it a dier situation. If anyone can guide me in the right direction, it will help immensely 🙏🏾

[@DrScarleta5]

I'm about to speak to a therapist on Monday and was scared that my therapist might not look at my condition not as serious as it is affecting me and won't write me time off at all. Is there any way to say anything to a iop provider that won't do a welfare check either even if you have thoughts that bug you about not feeling like I should be here or not alive is there any ways that I can go about this to get more days off cause I really don't feel good and still have no right medication at all

[@sneakerbay1836]

I have ptsd, so if i wake up not feeling like myself can i call in for fmla (depression , anxiety , loneliness , sucidality , irritability , agitation,and intrusive thoughts )

[@tylerjellis]

People with PTSD can definitely qualify for FMLA. You will still need to initiate the regular procedure outlined in the video, though (notifying employer, getting the paperwork taken care of with doctor, etc)

[@rezzyg3750]

Can my primary doctor fill it out for me ? What if I’d need like two weeks off then the intermittent period?

[@tylerjellis]

I would call and ask ahead of making an appointment because not every doctor will agree to do this paperwork for you and you don't want to waste your time or money. If you need a few weeks off before the intermittent period, that is something you'd probably have to discuss with your employer separately.

[@ResilientFighter]

If you get placed on a PIP, can you use FMLA to push the deadline?

[@autumnonpurpose]

Yes a pip doesn’t mean anything

[@JarrodPairgin]

They're gonna fire you anyways if you're on a pip dawg. They're literally only there to have documentation to fire you without getting sued.

[@rebadesmarais8050]

Love the content but the music makes it difficult to pay attention. I clicked on this video to hear your thoughts on FMLA. When I want music I listen to my music. Please redo this video and edit out the music. ❤❤❤

[@tylerjellis]

Thanks for the feedback! I agree and have completely stopped adding music to my videos.

[@yooo2568]

What if you have back problems you had from a wreck a few years back and the job you are working now causes flare ups, could you get fmla to like go to the chiropractor a few times a week?

[@tylerjellis]

Yup, that is pretty much a perfect example of what FMLA is for! haha

[@yooo2568]

@@tylerjellis awesome! Would I go to my primary doctor for that or go to the chiropractor to get that set up?

[@tylerjellis]

@@yooo2568 To save your time and money, I would call or email both offices and be straight up with them about your situation. Make sure that FMLA paperwork is something they are potentially willing to fill out for you before you even book an appointment. I know people can get their primary care physicians to fill it out for them, but for me, that was a waste of time and money. They basically told me: "Oh we don't do that kind of paperwork here; you'll need to see a specialist. Thanks for the copay, though!"

[@yooo2568]

@@tylerjellis ok thanks I will try that

[@Jakayla5645]

Aww I can’t find your IG. Nice video!

[@tylerjellis]

Thanks! I've got a link to my IG here: dontpanicdothis.com/contact/ Anyone is welcome to reach out to me there, but full disclosure, it's just my personal IG and not even the slightest bit helpful or professional. 😅

[@justgina2031]

Hey, I have had conversations with my boss about fmla . My 12 month anniversary is 2/21/2023 so why did my they send the paperwork and start the 15 day window now....wouldn't i be denied regardless because im apply 1 week shy of 12 months necessary

[@tylerjellis]

Could it be possible that your boss didn't realize you'd be ineligible? It may be worth having an honest discussion with them about it, since you do need to be employed for at least a year to be eligible.

[@michaeldautry]

You could just wait until you have 12 months employment before using the FMLA

[@DD-si6oo]

Liked your video, but the music in the background was distracting

[@tylerjellis]

Thanks! I agree, I no longer add music to my videos :)

[@lovelyaboveness]

What about having depression after a breast cancer diagnosis and numerous surgery date changes before actually surgery...please help

[@tylerjellis]

This most definitely sounds like something that would qualify to me. Those are all very valid reasons to take some time off work. Just make sure you communicate to your doctor exactly what you want in terms of time off / flexiblity and why.

[@mauriciovaron5897]

Can you send me a direct message with the therapist and their office that you used / authorized your FMLA?

[@jtboehler3714]

I've only been at my job for 9 months & hr dept said I was eligible

[@tylerjellis]

Some companies may be nice and willing to offer it earlier.

[@gcaplan1]

Advice on language to get therapist to approve a 4 week only leave ?

[@neoasura]

Dont use a therapist, use an actual doctor. My doctor approved a 6 week mental stress leave for me. But its up to your company if they abide by doctors orders.

[@gcaplan1]

@@neoasura thank you very much for the advice . Any further advice such as wording and such ? I don’t have a regular doctor but do have time wanting to leave in October fir a month . My plan to word it is this . Talked to enployer about quiting , they asked why , explained I needed more than 2 weeks vacation to resolve issues and in past after a year or two at job I quit and get new job after I’ve decompressed. Employee said if I can get doctor/ therapist to sign FMLA it’s one way company can give me the time needed . Then I’ll tell story about insomnia and stress to the professional . That’s the shirt version already too long pitch . Welcome any of your input or critiques . Thank you

[@tylerjellis]

@@gcaplan1 I know someone else advised against using a therapist and to use a medical doctor, but I actually had the opposite experience. The primary care office I typically use told me they don't do FMLA paperwork (only after I actually was in the office, wasting my time and money) whereas the therapist did all the paperwork for me after one online meeting. As for wording (obviously I can't give legal counsel here), I was totally direct with the therapist about what I wanted/needed. You could say "I would like [X amount of time] off each month to help me deal with [Y problem]." I don't see any reason it should be more complicated than that; if they make it complicated, I'd find someone else.

[@gcaplan1]

@@tylerjellis thank you for input . I’m going to email a few therapist saying I need month off , usually I quit jobs to get anxiety relief for a month , boss told about fmla after turning in notice and says company pays fir 8 therapy visits a year . He said try this first and if you can please just take October instead of sept off. Then briefly detail my stress/anxiety stuff and other goals from treatment . I appreciate hearing your experiences

[@tylerjellis]

@@gcaplan1 Let us know what happens! Wishing you the best and hope it all works out for you. 🙂

[@adrilyfe7869]

Question: 1250 need to be accumated within year you apply for leave? So I've been working for 5 years with employer PT. But when does the hours start? I don't understand that part. So if i appy for Fmla is 2022. Jan 2022 i need 1250hrs? Or from the time i started work from day 1 of the 5 years???

[@neoasura]

It goes backwards from the time you apply for it. So if you applied for it today, it would go back to last year of the same day and if you have the 1250 hours within that time, you qualify.

[@hanig8860]

I want to use FMLA for after giving birth to my baby. I have been a contractor in a company for almost two years. If my contract ends one month after my due date, am will I be still eligible for FMLA? When should i apply for it?

[@JarrodPairgin]

I don't think you get fmla as a contractor only when you're w2

[@Short17]

Link for therapist?

[@tylerjellis]

If you're interested in online therapy, I compare some options here: dontpanicdothis.com/online-therapy However, I don't believe the online services can/will complete FMLA paperwork for you. If you've got insurance, your best bet would be to find a therapist through their in-network provider list. Otherwise, you could just search Google for local therapists in your area and call/email them to see how soon they could help you with FMLA paperwork.

[@Short17]

@@tylerjellis thanks 🙏

[@_YESIMHIGH]

Wait how tf did you get it approved online? Whaaaat … what online service did you use so I can use it. I don’t have insurance

[@tylerjellis]

I had the paperwork done over videochat by a therapist and sent to Sedgwick who handled FMLA leaves for my employer. You don't need insurance to do this, although you might expect to pay like... $150-200 or so for the booking with the therapist/doctor.

[@Nothingbutloveandlaughs]

FMLA did exempt all qualifications for California residents, during 2020-2022 heads up

[@alyssachen6211]

If my mom has chronic depression and she wants me back to China for a month. Would I be qualify for FMLA?

[@tylerjellis]

It might, if her depression is severe enough where she needs your support (as in, she needs you for safety, transportation, medical needs, etc.). You'd need to meet the requirements discussed in the video as well. It might be good to discuss this with your HR department for more specific advice about your situation.

[@dontyoualreadyknow]

My problem is some days it is all I have to drag myself out of bed. Other days I am ok. I think I need intermediate FMLA. But if I tell them I need to start the process 30 days before I am afraid they will either try to deny it or try to retaliate. What should I do. I am going to see my MD Monday. I accumulate pdo. I have depleted my pdo due to depression/anxiety.

[@tylerjellis]

Retaliating against you for requesting this sort of leave would be illegal, and it's not really up to your employer whether or not it gets denied. Talk to your doctor about this and let them know what you just told me here. They can help you get the occasional protected day off you need.

[@dontyoualreadyknow]

@@tylerjellis I know they can't be obvious. But this company is sneaky. I just don't trust them. But I will speak to my MD about it at my appointment.

[@dontyoualreadyknow]

@@tylerjellis Thank you though

[@tylerjellis]

@@dontyoualreadyknow Ahh I hear you. Well trust your gut for sure, and protect yourself by doing everything by the book. Your doctor should definitely be able to help a bit here. Good luck and let us know how it goes!

[@dontyoualreadyknow]

@@tylerjellis Hi. I went to the MD and they agreed to give me intermediate FMLA. Now I have to request a leave of absence form, fill it out, and email it back. Then I wait for them to email a packet. I then fill that out, get my MD to fill it out and send it back. My question is, if I get granted FMLA. How do I use it? I don't know when my anxiety will be extremely high on certain days until it hits me. So I can't say oh Tuesday the 11th I'm gonna need a FMLA day. The lady at the MD office said sure 1-2 days a month due to flare ups or appointments. But again I can't predict what days I will need it. Any advice will be greatly appreciated

[@Mstrucker]

I've been working for a company for 11 months consecutively and one month in 2006. Do I qualify for FMLA?

[@tylerjellis]

From what I understand, as long as they total up to 12 months, you should be good (Also you need to have worked 1,250 hours total in the past 12 months). I've made a little cheat sheet around @3:40

[@JamilaParham]

Can you work with your therapist or primary for anxiety? Can it be the therapist or do you need both?

[@melissahewitt5592]

Here's my issue. I currently work from home bc I'm 100% agoraphobic. I want to take on a 2nd job but I don't know if I should tell them in my job interview that some times I might need an extra break bc my anxiety, or wait until I get hired and then they think they've hired a problem child. I feel too ashamed to ask for accomodations and FMLA especially if I'm a brand new employee. Should I be telling them from jump or wait til I get hired. I have an interview on Tuesday and I am sick about this.

[@tylerjellis]

I totally get where you're coming from. Something you may want to keep in mind though is that you'd need to be employed at the company for at least a year to qualify for FMLA, so it's not something you can get right away as a new employee. Taking on a second job can be a lot for anyone, even without dealing with agoraphobia. Have you considered gig jobs that would be more flexible? There are so many great work-from-home-when-you-want options. Every now and then I'll even watch a dog on Rover (super fun and easy) to earn an extra $1k+ per month while watching a dog and doing my regular work from the computer.

[@FlowerAcid]

Nice beard

[@tylerjellis]

Lmao thank you

[@markjou9799]

Im going to be straight up, alot of you people who take FMLA are lazy and are just trying to get out of work.

[@Sleepyeves]

You sound ignorant and miserable. Mental health is real and should be taken as serious as a physical illness.

[@MsPNWrider]

What a joke

[@tylerjellis]

hehe