Yes, diagnosed mental health disorders are included in medical leave or short term disability leave. But I think there's a minimum amount of time you need to have worked at Starbucks to be able to use them, and I don't know for sure whether or not you qualify yet. Call PCC to talk to a leave specialist.

What you certainly would qualify for is medical accommodation at work. If you have a doctor's note to work seated (DTO is the most obvious place that this is an option, if you're at a drive thru store), or for a certain amount of breaks, limit on how much weight you can lift and for what length of time--basically anything that they would prescribe to decrease your calorie burning at work--that is something you can work with your manager to accommodate. If your restrictions are beyond what would make you a viable employee in your store's circumstances, they can say no, but of they're excellent, they will try to work with you to help you without overburdening your coworkers.

As a last resort, if you have an honest conversation about being forced to quit because of your health needs, but you'd like to reapply after your treatment and with your doctor's green light, you'd really like to be able to come back. They couldn't guarantee it, of course, but most managers would rather make a good known rehire than start from scratch with someone brand new.

Hi there! I’m in recovery and have been with the company for almost two years now. When I first started, I was deep in a relapse. So I feel your pain. I’ve gone to treatment twice (first time was med stabilization which turned into a 4 month hospital stay. Second time was technically due to chronic illnesses but I still went from med stabilization to IP-RES-PHP) since starting and took medical leave (short term disability) both times. For the majority of my time, I’ve been doing outpatient (dietitian, therapist and psych).

The biggest thing I’ve learned is to properly communicate. Let your SM know what’s happening. I’ve had three SMs and all have been understanding (I also have chronic illnesses which I disclosed upon hiring but not my ED). After talking with your SM, I’d reach out to accommodate center. You can get accommodations for shorter shifts, more breaks, ect. I have an accommodation to be able to have an extra 10 if needed. If that’s not enough, reach out to Sedgwick and see what leaves you qualify for. You most definitely can take a leave for treatment. Even if it’s just IOP you can qualify. Eating disorders (and other mental illnesses) 100% count as a medical condition so medical leave is available.

Some other things I’ve learned along the way. If you trust one of your shifts, let them know. Its hard telling people but the bigger your support circle the better. I’m now open about my struggles and other health issues and let me tell ya, it’s made a world of a difference. The BUX has become a big part in my recovery. Something else, try your best to fuel before and during a shift. Obviously that isn’t easy with an ED. But pick your safest food, and eat that before work and on your breaks. Staying hydrated is a huge help too. I know liquid calories can be difficult for some but they can be extremely beneficial in recovery. You burn a lot during a shift, your body needs glucose. Trust me, a regular latte or refresher will help give you energy. I actually have a plan with my dietitian to ALWAYS drink a latte or Frappuccino during my 10 to keep my energy up and to properly fuel myself. Also, CS is brutal on anyone. Don’t be afraid to ask your shift to move you around. Even if it’s only for 30 mins on DT or POS, your body will thank you. Your shifts may not always be able to move you but it doesn’t hurt to ask. You said you are looking at therapy. Have you heard about the Lyra benefit? It matches you with a local therapist and covers 20 session a year. It can be a great way to jump start therapy. I know in my area, there are ED specialist/therapist available through it. Once the 20 sessions are up you can continue with that person too. Also, keep your doctor informed. Your health is priority. If your doctor asks you to take a day off, please do. If you need to get labs frequently, do it. To be blunt, you can’t work if you are dead. And lastly, hang in there. Recovery is hellish. But it does get better. Rely on your support system. Be open and honest with them. And trust your instincts. Only you know your limits. You got this! My PMs are always open if you’d like to chat!

Medical Leave goes hand in hand with Starbucks Short Term Disability. In order to qualify for Starbucks Short Term Disability, you have to be elligible for Starbucks benefits.

As a part time employee

> - You establish initial benefits eligibility the first day of the second month after receiving at least 240 total hours over three full, consecutive months

Since you don’t currently qualify for Starbucks benefits, you don’t qualify for Short Term Disability and Medical Leave.