So many questions surrounding this topic!
Can you take leave from work to better support your mental health and your child’s needs? How do you go about it? What do you need? How do I approach my work?
If you feel like you are overwhelmed, stressed out, at your whits end and just cannot continue to juggle work life balance you are not alone. Being a parent is stressful, working is stressful and it can affect your health and your child’s.
Maybe it's time to consider a leave from work to recharge and focus on yourself as well as your child.
Below are steps to take, what you will need and who does what to in process.
Medical Release Form (Required for EI)
https://catalogue.servicecanada.gc.ca/content/EForms/en/Detail.html?Form=INS5242A Medical Certificate (make sure all boxes check yes) even if it is not end of life care, the way they have it worded is poorly done and they are all applicable to any medical needs and must be answered as yes in order for approval to happen.
Note: The medical certificate does not have much room for your doctor to explain the situation. They can either write all over the form (EI dislikes this) or have them write a letter to better explain the situation. Give your job the doctors note and a written resignation/leave note dated and signed. It can be as simple as I will no longer be working after (date) due to (reason). Expected return date if known. They will provide you an ROE - Record of Employment. The code they use here is important as it can cause delays in the process if the wrong one is used. Compassionate care leave (Code Z ) is the one needed. Once you have left or know when you're leaving work apply online for Employment Insurance Compassionate Care Benefits. You do not have to have your ROE when applying but it will be required for them to process it. During your application process you will upload your medical release and medical certificate as well. You must apply within 4 weeks of leaving your job.
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/caregiving/apply.html Keep copies of everything you submit to work and Employment Insurance in case it is needed again. Once everything is submitted it is a waiting game and things are not done to certain standards it can cause major delays and be extremely frustrating for all. If you have any questions or need support to make it through this process or any other situation you are feeling overwhelmed with please book a free consultation with us.
We are not psychologists, doctors, or even claim to play one through any aspect. The purpose of our Parent’s Survival Resource and Connection Group is to share our experiences, resources, and other information we have collected over the years to make life easier while navigating this process. If you are seeking consultation or a professional opinion, please reach out to your local medical professional providers to achieve your families’ goals and help with any concerns.