Don't think I can cope full time work 3.5 years after a stroke

Jas
Jason Tuesday, May 18 2021
16 Comments

I had my stroke in December 2017.  August 2019 I agreed to go back to work full time 40 hour week (8 hour days).  I had a 6 week holiday during this time and some leave.  Since COVID I noticed working from home suites my fatigue really well and have been lucky to stay working from home.  But having 2 young kids, fitting 'normal life' in I am struggling.  My health is being left last and when I try to fit something in my fatigue starts.  Have others found the same.  Not being able to go back to full time work years after their stroke?

16 Responses
Avaniterg avatar
Avaniterg

Going back to work can be a big change, you need to take extra care of yourself and planning ahead can help you through the process.

Lunadawn avatar
Lunadawn

You really had a rough time, I hope you're in a good condition right now.

Re-Mapping the Page.
Michael R avatar
Michael R

Hi Jas, I'll be honest and share my experience and it may be useful to you. 1. I had to ask myself the honest Q: 'can I actually do the work I'm paid for (pre stroke)?' If the answer is no, an alternative may be a better option. 2. 'Am I pushing myself just because of the money'? If yes, one needs to look at alternatives (e.g. how much do you need to survive?). Some tough Qs and even tougher As. In any case, I wish u all the best ( most importantly look after your health)! 

Michael R avatar
Michael R

Hi Jas, to answer your Q, I returned full-time, but decided to leave due to my cognitive issues (short-term memory, balance and fatigue) and lack of adequate support in the workplace. Covid and WFH did not help as I felt isolated (new place, systems, procedures) and lack of training. Hope this helps

Michael R avatar
Michael R

By way of background, had my stroke July 2016, 21 days ICU, temporary loss of vision, had to 'learn' to walk again... not to mention depression... what helped me was volunteer work before return to work. Important is adequat support of a workplace (managers)!

Lunadawn avatar
Lunadawn

I love those who can smile in trouble, who can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. Your story @MIchael R is so inspiring. Thank you for sharing it with us. 

john avatar
john

Jas,

I'm 56 and 2 TIA's in the last 18 months.  I was a FIFO shift worker, and because of fatigue after my first stroke, coupled with the stresses imposed by a completely uncaring employer, I left the workforce in February last year.  Since then I have been pursuing early access to my superannuation, but its a bureaucratic nightmare.  Good luck with whatever option you choose, but I can't face rejoining the workforce

1
Loading reply form...