Hi, my name is BusyBeeBakes! I have recently been diagnosed with Graves Disease

BusyBeeBakes

Hello,

I have recently been diagnosed with Graves Disease, and whilst coming to terms with this, I now realised why I have struggled with work so much in the years it has taken to get to the bottom of my problems. I don't know where to go for advice or help with the struggles I'm having in coping day to day with the symptoms. I get terribly short of breath with the smallest of tasks, every joint aches in my body and work is becoming very difficult. Who could I contact for support with my working arrangements? Can I still work but claim some help with living expenses if I have to reduce my hours of work?

Holly_Scope

Hi @BusyBeeBakes and welcome to the community. 🙂 Sounds like your diagnosis must have been a bit of a relief having struggled for some time. Are you presently in employment? If so, have you spoken with them about your diagnosis and your thoughts about changing your hours etc? I'd also suggest requesting a occupational health assessment via your employer. It's completed by a third party organisation, and they will speak with you and recommend reasonable adjustments to your organisation to support your needs at work.

As far as expenses if you were to reduce your working hours, there are disability benefits that you might be able to claim. I've added a link here for the governments benefits calculator which might be helpful - Benefits calculators - GOV.UK. You could also make contact with your local Citizens advice for some helpful guidance and support - Citizens Advice.

You've mentioned your day to day symptoms becoming more difficult. I'm really sorry to hear this. Have you spoken with your GP about this getting worse? I'm just thinking they might be able to refer you for some further support if you feel you could benefit from this.

I hope the above is helpful but if there's anything else, or you'd like to discuss any of the above further, please let me know.

Best wishes,

Holly.