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Work/volunteering

Sick days

(6 Posts)
judi1144 Tue 11-Aug-26 13:13:56

I think I've done the right thing but I'm looking for some reassurance really.
I'm 58 years old and work full time in a Library. It's not a sit down job as you might imagine, it's actually very physical and I average around 15,000 steps each day. It's good for me, keeps my arms and legs working and strong. However, my hours are long; 8.30am -6.00pm Tuesday to Friday and every other Saturday 8.30am -4.00pm. I really enjoy my job but the school holidays are incredibly busy and to be honest I'm exhausted. I don't work Mondays but I do help my daughter with childcare for our 2 boys aged 6 and 3 on these days. I love it, spending all day with them during the holidays is a joy and good for my wellbeing but it does mean that every other week, I only get one day off to catch up with housework etc.
This past couple of weeks I've been feeling done in, run down and just broken. My daughter has reduced her hours on a Monday so that I get a bit if a break but I think I've pushed it too far.
I'm afraid I had to call in sick today. I said I had picked up a virus as I don't feel I can say "I'm tired." But I do recognise the signs of when I just need to stop. I'm thinking I just need a couple of days to read, sleep and tend my houseplants. Me time. I just feel so bloody guilty about it. Have I done the right thing? Or should I have just put on my big girl pants and got on with it?

sodapop Tue 11-Aug-26 13:34:35

I think it's a bigger problem than just a couple of days off sick judi1144 Take the time off but use it to think about your future. Talk honestly to your daughter as well. Are you able to work part time, could you have help with housework?
Your health is so important take care of yourself.

DianneAngel Tue 11-Aug-26 14:24:37

Listen to your body. If you don't then there will be worse down the line. Maybe, you have picked up a little bug that's making you more tired than usual. Good luck, hugs

Shel1951 Tue 11-Aug-26 14:31:33

Sounds like shared hours? Or part time, listen to your body, my daughter was a librarian and the hours were too much and she was 47,she now works a 9 to 5 monday to Friday job with option for working at home for most of the month,
Yur health is everything

Shel1951 Tue 11-Aug-26 14:31:50

Your

AGAA4 Tue 11-Aug-26 14:40:54

Those are long hours and library work can be hard physically. I remember it. I'm not surprised you are exhausted with the childcare as well.
Are you able to work less hours or spend more time sitting down at work?
Your health is suffering so something needs to change.
I hope you feel better soon and can resolve the situation 💐