Howdy, fellow antiworkers. I'll keep this post brief, as I'm looking for genuine advice (as in, despite the topic of this sub, please nothing like “just don't go back”). As a brief background, I am a contractor, working fully remote as a software developer, and there are literally no positive factors about my job aside from the fact that I work remotely and I earn more money than I often know what to do with. I've tried my best to approach with a positive mindset, but after the downright onslaught I've experienced in this position, I've decided for my mental health, leaving a cushy, high-paying, fully remote job is, somehow, better for me.
That being said, I am currently on short-term disability (STD). I had a surgery last month that left me immobile. That STD period is ending soon, and despite having been in contact with my HR – who is only asking me about when I will be returning to work – and telling them I will return at the projected date by my surgeon, I really can't bring myself to “go back”.
My question to you, fellow redditors, is two-fold. If you have experience with STD and not returning from your job, would you share how you handled this situation (if you are comfortable sharing)? And if you don't have firsthand experience – how would you approach this matter? Again, I'd prefer advice for handling it professionally, but since this is reddit and my expectations are quasi-low, at least try to make me laugh if you need to come up with something DGAF in nature (the situation depresses me so lols are appreciated). Thanks again, folks.