Zwolnienie od psychiatry: jak je uzyskać i co musisz wiedzieć
When you need a zwolnienie od psychiatry, formalny dokument potwierdzający, że pacjent nie może uczestniczyć w obowiązkach społecznych lub zawodowych z powodu stanu zdrowia psychicznego. Also known as skierowanie na zwolnienie lekarskie z powodu choroby psychicznej, it is issued only when a psychiatrist confirms that the condition significantly impairs daily functioning. To get one, you must first have a confirmed diagnosis — not just feelings of stress or low mood, but something clinically recognized like depression, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, or psychosis.
A psychiatra, lekarz specjalista w zakresie chorób psychicznych, który może diagnozować, przepisywać leki i wydawać zwolnienia is the only professional who can legally issue this document. Unlike a general practitioner, a psychiatrist has the authority to assess mental capacity, evaluate risk, and determine if your condition meets legal criteria for temporary or long-term absence from work or studies. You don’t need to be hospitalized — many patients get their zwolnienie after outpatient visits. But you must show consistent symptoms over time, often supported by treatment records, therapy notes, or medication logs.
Many people think they can get a zwolnienie after one visit, but that’s rarely true. Psychiatrists need to see how you respond to treatment. If you’ve been on medication for a few weeks and still can’t get out of bed, attend meetings, or focus on tasks, your doctor will note it. If you’re in crisis — suicidal thoughts, panic attacks every day, or hallucinations — they’ll act faster. But if you’re just feeling overwhelmed, they’ll likely suggest therapy first, not a leave.
There’s no automatic right to a zwolnienie just because you feel bad. The system is strict because it’s easy to misuse. But if you’re truly struggling, and your symptoms are documented, you have every right to ask. If your psychiatrist refuses, ask for a written explanation. You can request a second opinion from another psychiatrist — and you can even file a complaint with the regional medical board if you believe the refusal was unjustified.
What about NFZ? If you’re covered by public healthcare, the visit and the zwolnienie are free. You don’t pay extra for the form. But if you go private — and many do, because waiting times for public psychiatrists are long — you’ll pay for the consultation, but the zwolnienie itself is still issued without extra charge. The form follows the same legal template regardless of who issues it.
Don’t wait until you’re burned out. If you’ve been avoiding work, skipping appointments, or feeling numb for weeks, it’s time to talk to a specialist. A zwolnienie od psychiatry, nie jest oznaką słabości — to narzędzie, które pozwala ci odzyskać kontrolę nad swoim zdrowiem. Many people return to work stronger after a few weeks of rest and treatment. Others need longer. Either way, you’re not alone. Below you’ll find real stories and practical guides on how to navigate this process — from booking your first appointment to understanding what your doctor looks for before signing the form.
Czy pracodawca wie, że zwolnienie jest od psychiatry? Nie widzi diagnozy, nie wie o chorobie. Od 2025 roku możesz mieć pełne anonimowość. Dowiedz się, jakie masz prawa i jak chronić prywatność.