When Work & Life Feel Heavier Than They Should
When I was at the height of my burnout in 2019, I was commuting into Boston every day with two kids under three. Leadership removed my remote days entirely, and I wasn’t sure how to advocate for myself or what options were available. My second child had been born prematurely, and I was navigating an already intense season without clear guidance or support.
In 2021, I was ultimately laid off — and looking back, I often think about how different that period might have felt if I’d had better information about workplace benefits, protections, and advocacy options along the way. That’s why I want to share this resource with you.
As part of my commitment to supporting you beyond our coaching conversations, I’m introducing a trusted resource from Scully & O’Leary LLC, an employment law firm that is part of my preferred provider network. They offer thoughtful, human-centered guidance for navigating workplace benefits, leaves, and transitions during complex life seasons.
Below is a simple overview of workplace support that may be available if you’re navigating medical leave, burnout, childbirth, caregiving, or returning to work after time away.
Massachusetts Workplace Support Options (At a Glance)
Massachusetts Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML)
Up to 20 weeks of medical leave and/or 12 weeks of family/caregiving leave (for a maximum of 26 weeks per benefit year); partial wage replacement (up to $1,230.39/week in 2026); job protection; leave may be taken intermittently in some cases
MA Department of Family & Medical Leave
Disability Benefits
Short-term or long-term partial income replacement through an employer or personal policy; coverage and eligibility vary by plan
Review your employment benefits or insurance policy
Wellness Benefits
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), wellness initiatives, mental health, or caregiving resources
Check your employment benefits materials
Workplace Accommodations
Possible adjustments to your schedule, role, or work environment due to medical needs
Guidance from the MA Commission Against Discrimination
There may also be other supports available depending on your situation. If you’re unsure which benefits apply to you, whether you’re eligible, or whether accessing them makes sense for your family, helpful starting points include: the Massachusetts Department of Family & Medical Leave, your employer or HR team, your health insurance provider, or a financial advisor or employment attorney.
About Scully & O’Leary LLC
Scully & O’Leary LLC, led by Jen Scully and Meghan O’Leary, is a Massachusetts-based employment law firm supporting employees, employers, sole proprietors, and medical providers through workplace benefits decisions, leaves, accommodations, and return-to-work transitions. Because of their compassionate and practical approach, they are part of my preferred provider network — professionals I trust to support you when legal or benefits-related guidance is needed alongside coaching.
🔗 Learn more or sign up for their newsletter: Scully & O’Leary
📸 Follow along on Instagram: @scullyandoleary
If you’re in a season where work and life feel heavier than they should, I hope this gives you a little clarity and reassurance. You deserve support, information, and options — especially during hard chapters.
With you in this juggle,
Christine
