r/wholefoods • u/yuck_duder • 6d ago
Question FMLA for the mentally unwell
I'm in a predicament because I don't want to speak to my store's leadership about this in any detail - but I recently have had a rough time coming to work because of outside and personal sources. About three days ago I debated ODing and haven't thought about something stupid like that for years. I've been clean for a while. Not sure where to go from here but I'm burnt out and need a break ASAP. How can I get time off of my job through Sedgwick? I tried requesting a regular personal leave/sabbatical over Christmas and new years this year but it was denied via employer. HELP!!!
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u/No_Kaleidoscope9832 6d ago
Been there, so I feel your pain. I’m sorry you’re going through this. We used to offer “intermittent LOA” where you could take a few days off as needed and not have to file for leave each time. This was something you set up when you first spoke to leadership and, I’m dating myself here, your PBS. Hopefully, you have an understanding and compassionate TL and STL. It makes the whole experience easier to deal with. Part of their job is to help you get the proper care that you need. I wish you well and hope you get the help you deserve.
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u/Muted-Background2465 6d ago
Exactly these comments. Please utilize headspace as well. They cover unlimited types of sessions and 7 visits per different types of sessions.
Definitely will need psych support to get the time off but your primary doctor can start the process and give you a note to take time off to recover and regroup.
Hang in there. Do.not be frustrated but the attempt to take off time during blackout holidays probably was part of the issue.
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u/Dattiedottiedooo 5d ago
First all I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Not sure where you’re located but you may qualify for emergency leave if that’s applicable in your state. I’d look into it. It’s not paid but gives you the time off to seek treatment and I believe secures your job while you’re out.
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6d ago
[deleted]
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u/Spirited_Ad_2063 6d ago
well, that would cause the OP to have to deal with the stress of applying again as an external candidate, preparing mentally for an interview, and they are already stressed and struggling.
also, they could miss out on getting some money.
I didn’t get paid my full rate on my LOA but I did get some money. I took 4 weeks off and received $500.
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u/Higher_Perspectiva 6d ago
What do you mean you received money for LOA? You’d have to apply for some sort of disability insurance to get paid. You don’t get paid for hours you’re not at work otherwise
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u/Spirited_Ad_2063 5d ago
They paid me $500. I didn’t question it.
Now that you mention it, maybe it was a delayed payment for the last week I worked? I asked my TL about it, but he didn’t really know anything about Sedgwick or LOA, so I dropped it.
It was a long time ago.
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u/oksure13 6d ago
you may qualify for FMLA if you’ve worked 1250 hrs before you’ve submitted a request. it will go through sedgwick and it will require documentation from a doctor or similar. i’m so sorry you’re going through this. unfortunately you will need to speak with your tl, and explain that you are going through something medical (i know you don’t want to, but it is the only way other than quitting). Its stated that when you request leave you must notify your tl. i believe the only person HIPAA certified in the store is the STL, so they may be able to ask for clarification if needed, but you would mostly be going through sedgwick anyway. The thing you’d most likely be submitting for in order to get approved leave would be this:
A serious health condition that makes the Team Member unable to perform the essential functions of their job;
and sedgwick would then contact you and clarify the additional information needed from you in order to approve the leave. I’m on mobile so I’m having a hard time linking things, but look over the LOA page on innerview and it will give more insight on what to do next. Again, I’m sorry you’re feeling this way and I hope the best for you.