Continuation from the Previous Post
This article is a continuation of the previous post. You can read this one on its own, but I recommend checking out the related article below as well.
Introduction: When Work Becomes Too Much to Bear Makoto As of 2025, I’ve been officially diagnosed […]
Warning Signs: When My Mind and Body Started to Change
After being transferred to a new location, although my job duties remained the same, the new environment and relationships gradually built up stress.
At first, I just felt “a bit more tired than usual.” But soon, I couldn’t sleep at night, and both my mind and body began to feel increasingly heavy.
One evening during overtime, my boss scolded me harshly for a long time. My mind completely shut down, and I couldn’t stop crying on the train ride home. I even thought, “Maybe it would be easier if I just disappeared.”
Even after that, I couldn’t sleep, couldn’t stand on the train, and could barely sit at my desk. That’s when I realized I had reached my limit and decided to see a psychiatrist.
Less than two months had passed since the transfer—it felt like I had raised the white flag way too early.
Diagnosed with Adjustment Disorder
I searched online for a mental health clinic that could see me the same day and rushed over to the one I found.
I explained everything to the doctor: the stress from work and relationships after the transfer, the mental fog, the physical exhaustion.
As a result, I was diagnosed with adjustment disorder. However, no medical certificate was issued at that point—the doctor suggested it could be provided depending on discussions with my employer.
- A mental and physical breakdown caused by intense stress
- Common triggers include job transfers, career changes, relationship conflicts, or family issues
- Unlike depression, the source of stress is usually clear
- Main symptoms
- Persistent sadness, uncontrollable tears, insomnia, fatigue
- Lack of focus, inability to work or manage household tasks
- Mental fog and physical exhaustion
- If left untreated, it may lead to depression or anxiety disorders
- It’s not a sign of weakness
- It’s a natural reaction that can happen to anyone
- Recognizing it early and taking a break is key to recovery
A Turning Point: Meeting with the Company Nurse
Fortunately, I had a scheduled health check interview with the company nurse shortly after this happened, and I was able to share everything during that session.
I spoke honestly about what I had been through. The nurse listened with great empathy and firmly told me, “You absolutely need to take a break.”
Her words brought me some relief. Talking to someone eased the burden just a bit, though I still had many worries. Later, a meeting with my manager and HR was arranged, and I returned to the clinic to get an official diagnosis letter.
Taking Medical Leave: The Procedure and What Happened
I submitted the medical certificate to the company nurse, and I was granted medical leave starting that same day. My work laptop and phone were collected on the spot, and I provided an emergency contact.
A formal meeting with my boss was held with the nurse present. The nurse informed my boss that I would be taking immediate leave, and he signed the paperwork to make it official.
I was concerned about handing over my work, but the nurse insisted, “With a diagnosis, you’re not allowed to work anymore.” So I left the office.
As I walked out, what I felt most was relief. It was as if a heavy weight had finally been lifted from me.
Reflections During Leave: Future Work and Fears About Returning
Looking back, I realize just how close to the edge I was. Deciding to rest was not a mistake.
During the leave, I couldn’t even think about work. The things I used to care about—promotion, performance evaluations—no longer seemed as important. What truly matters is health and family.
From now on, I want to work at a pace that doesn’t destroy me. That’s why I started this blog as a new challenge.
Still, I have many concerns about returning to work. My boss, the one who triggered this situation, is still there. I’m afraid of breaking down again if I go back to the same team. Ideally, I hope to transfer to another department and will discuss this openly with the company.
I’ll continue sharing my journey toward recovery and return to work here. If this helps even one person going through a similar struggle, that would mean the world to me.