How do I tell my boss I need a leave of absence

What exactly do I say, do I mention mental health?

I remember having to tell one of my bosses the same thing and it's really hard to do. I hope you're able to do this with a minimum amount of stress.

Have you taken a look at your local laws to see what kind of obligation the two of you have in this situation? Some places require disclosure of the medical/mental problem before they are obligated to provide a leave. It could protect you too because mental illness is considered a disability.

A straightforward approach might be best in this situation. Then again, I don't know your boss or how he/she would react to this type of request. It's definitely better if you know the laws and procedures of where you work.

Well I had to disclose it to someone that needed to approve the paperwork who works in another facility and doesn't know me personally. The paperwork was approved so now I need to tell my supervisor that I will be taking the leave of absence but don't know how to put it. I know he knows I'm going throug a hard time that's about all I told him. I think he is the type to understand but I still feel strange telling him because it sounds like its fake, like "so what, you're depressed? deal with it" you know? I don't want to tell him how bad it really is like I'm close to suicide, this is my last resort (I'm going inpatient) my family's at their wits end, etc., etc. So I'm not sure how to word it to him.

LIke this is not a mild or moderate depression, it's severe

You can try phrasing it in such a way that points out you're too ill right now to give 100% at work, and it would be better for you to take time to focus on your health. Doing so will mean having a happier, more productive employee upon return. Do you have a set amount of time you want to take leave for? Mentioning that could make him feel better about granting the leave too.

Well its approved, so he can't say I can't go. I just have a hard time telling people that I won't be here because I have done it before although I didn't go inpatient. My doctor approved it for 2 months but I don't think it will be that long. That's all I can say.

Thanks, ladyswan

I hope it goes well, DangerousType. It sounds like you really need the break to focus on becoming well again. Whatever you said the last time you needed to take a leave will be good to say this time again. People take leaves of absence often and I doubt they'll hold this against you.