Practical guide · England

Mental health, work and fit notes while you wait

How to prepare for a conversation about work, what to record, and why workplace adjustments and fit-note decisions need to be individual.

Describe function, not just a diagnosis

Before speaking to a clinician or employer, note what is actually difficult: concentration, sleep, panic, travel, customer contact, shift patterns, deadlines or attendance. Concrete examples make it easier to discuss support.

Ask about work adjustments

Possible adjustments depend on the job and circumstances. You might discuss hours, breaks, workload, location, communication or a phased return. If disability law may apply, get appropriate employment advice rather than assuming every request must be granted.

Fit-note conversations

If your health is affecting your ability to work, ask an appropriate healthcare professional whether a fit note is relevant and explain what parts of the job you can and cannot currently manage. A fit note is not something this website can determine for you.

Prepare for review

Keep brief notes on what has improved or worsened and whether any adjustment is helping. That gives the next appointment something concrete to review.

Make the appointment easier to use

Put the things you do not want to forget into one private note before you go.

Open appointment prep →

Trusted source

NHS / NHS England guidance ↗

General information, not a diagnosis or personal treatment plan. Exact pathways and options vary. Reviewed 8 September 2026.