A Barca-Leeds Manager shares their experiences and support they have received in the workplace as part of National Inclusion Week 2022.

Approximately10 years ago, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress as a result of a one-off incident. Work supported me and over time I had 2 different types of talking therapy. Followed up by my GP, with medication and diagnosis for anxiety and depression. 

The conditions affected me on a daily basis, especially lack of sleep and a constant feeling of dread. I needed an outlet at work, trusted people who I could go and say I am having a bad day, they may make me a cuppa and remind me that I was doing a good job, despite anxieties. I never stopped work or have been off sick, looking back to the time of my worst symptoms, I think I saw work as a routine I could not afford to lose. My manager at the time was amazing and totally underestimated the difference they made in my life at that time.

Fast forward and I am now a Manager at Barca-Leeds. I receive support from my Barca manager, they understand anxiety and depression and how it can be exacerbated by life events. Sharing my disability with my manager was a positive experience.

I recently received support after a bereavement, when I returned to a period of not sleeping. My manager suggested adjustments temporarily, which supported me. I felt my manager understood my needs and wanted to help. I over came this particularly difficult period and was thankful that I have an approachable manager who did not judge what could seem like a trivial problem (lack of sleep) but is actually very debilitating.