Mental illness

[wwkayaker 0]

I have been accepted to study at a USA university. I suffer from anxiety and depression. I take medication daily to treat the condition. I have never been a threat to anyone or myself. My Dr. has discussed a possible need to take stress leave (one of the reasons I am looking at going back to school). Would taking a stress leave or being on long term disability from my job cause issues with getting a visa? And potentially adjusting status to married?

[Rob L 3,811]

Here are some resources related to medical exams

http://www.visajourney.com/content/medical

I am glad you are seeking help for your condition. Depression, for the most part, is no different than Diabetes or Hypertension. I don't think that taking medical leave for stress related illness will be a factor.

As far as long term disability goes, do you and your doctor eventually see a full return to the workforce? If the current work is a stressor itself do you see your self in different work or in a different environment in the future? If you migrate to the U.S. can you continue to receive long term disability payments? Supporting yourself may be an issue. You must functioning moderately well if you are able to take on studies.

[Rob L 3,811]

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Edited November 26, 2014 by Rob L

[wwkayaker 0]

Hi Rob L,

Sorry, I didn't realize I received any responses to this topic. I am a school principal/teacher and am burnt out. The quality of my work has deteriorated and is know I need a change. As far as future prospects, I have applied to BSU's engineering department and been accepted. Interestingly, I am able to focus on studying as it seems to be a bright spot as I can make a job change.

From my counselling sessions, I have done quite a bit of work into defining who I am, what I want and which careers are best suited for my personality. Unfortunately, teaching and management do not suit me well (depending on how much stock a person places on career tests/personality tests). Engineering is an area that has consistently appeared at the top of my career aptitude tests. I am concerned and am taking a leap of faith but that also relates to how depression and anxiety restrict a person to take chances. For my health, I need to try something different.

As far as the disability goes, I am not sure my doctor will sign forms or if I can go through with requesting a break. Despite my job being the cause of my mental illness, the stigma of a medical leave concerns me. I have savings and a line of credit to help me with school but money will be tight. My doctor and I both agree about the need to continue working. Simply, the disability payments would provide a base to allow me to reeducate and get better. After all, if not for the job I would not be this sick. Without getting into the job issues too much, my counsellor, doctor, ex-wife all point to significant changes in my personality and demeanour due to things that I have heard about my job. I don't see everything they do but I have trouble recalling events and seeing things objectively. I feel like I am trying to justify disability...