Anyone else really struggle with their mental health after returning to work?

Does your job offer mental health services? If so, try and speak to a therapist for a few sessions to help mentally organize and compartmentalize your work and personal life. Are you able to WFH or do part time? That could be a good solution for the time being but it also depends on your childcare situation. Can the caregiver send you photos and videos throughout the day?

@Mee thank you for that reply. They do offer a phone service I think but I need to look into it more. I've had therapy previously which helped years ago. I think it's mainly that I am so sleep deprived that I cannot concentrate at work. My work load is high and they haven't helped me at all to feel wanted back in the business or help me ease back in etc

I only occasionally get photos from the nursery but he seems to have settled in well

Sleep deprivation is torture 🫂 Your son is doing well in the nursery, hopefully that's one thing you can stop worrying about. I used to have lavender nearby when I couldn't sleep. Work wise, delegate as much as you can. Unfortunately, to get help, you might have to perform a calculated failure. Look at your company and see who's been getting the promotions. Highly doubt they're doing grunt work. They're probably failing upwards. Be loud and make sure people know what you're doing at work.

@Mee thanks again. I am definitely intentionally not trying to push myself to do too much work and burning out to show it is too much but also don't want to be fired etc but I think they would take some time. I can just see how disappointed my team is to have me back and I feel like such a burden

Yes, I went back to work in June & I've struggled with anxiety & imposter syndrome.

I really struggled. It’s a big adjustment. It did get better for me after a few months ❤️

Your workplace should refer you to "Occupational Health" it's means they can put adjustments in place. 🙂