In today's fast-paced life, many people struggle with problems resulting from stress, exhaustion and lowered mood. Daily challenges and pressures can negatively affect both physical and mental health. In such cases, the question often arises - can an employee receive L4 due to fatigue or ill-health?
Can a doctor issue a L4 due to exhaustion?
Yes, the GP is entitled to issue sick leave on the basis of exhaustion if he or she considers that the patient's condition requires it. Fatigue can seriously affect your health, reducing your productivity and impairing your quality of life. During the visit, the doctor will assess the patient's level of fatigue based on a medical history and examination to determine whether the patient needs rest and sick leave.
Is it possible to receive L4 due to stress?
Yes, an L4 can also be issued for excessive stress, which negatively affects health. Long-term stress can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, depression or gastrointestinal problems. If stress makes it difficult to perform your professional duties, your doctor may decide to issue sick leave.
Can you get a L4 for malaise?
Feeling unwell, resulting from ailments such as infections, colds or allergies, can be grounds for L4. In situations where ill health prevents daily functioning, a doctor may issue a sick leave, although in less serious cases he or she may only recommend rest and over-the-counter medication.
Symptoms of body fatigue
Fatigue can manifest itself in a variety of ways. The most common symptoms are:
- Extreme fatigue and lack of energy
- Concentration and memory problems
- Sleep disorders (insomnia or excessive sleepiness)
- Headaches and muscle pains
- Decrease in efficiency at work
- Changes in appetite
- Irritability, anxiety and depression
- Mood swings
If you are experiencing many of these symptoms and they are affecting your daily life, it is worth seeing your doctor for further diagnosis.
How to deal with fatigue?
In order to effectively counteract fatigue, it is important to introduce healthy habits to aid recovery:
- Regular sleep: Ensure you get enough sleep by going to bed and getting up at regular times.
- Healthy diet: Ensure a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Physical activity: Regular exercise improves fitness and helps to combat stress.
- Rest and relaxation: Find time for relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
- Stress management: Use stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing and walking outdoors.
How to deal with stress?
Stress management is key to maintaining mental and physical health. Here are some effective methods:
- Planning and organisation: organise your responsibilities to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Time for yourself: find time for relaxation and activities that make you happy.
- Support: Talk to loved ones and seek professional help if the stress becomes too intense.
- Healthy habits: Take care of your diet, physical activity and sleep to increase your resistance to stress.
- Relaxation techniques: Use meditation, deep breathing and other mindfulness techniques.
Can a doctor issue a L4 due to exhaustion or stress?
Yes, your GP can issue sick leave if you are overtired, stressed or feeling unwell, if your condition prevents you from functioning normally. It is worth remembering that mental and physical health are equally important, so if you have health problems, it is worth consulting your doctor and taking the appropriate steps to recover.
More information can be obtained by starting a medical e-consultation at any time.
