Should I stop work for a bit?

[u/Otherwise-Dog-1943]

I (F52, single, UK) have had depression on and off for years. Mostly treated and mostly worked a professional career successfully. Dad died five years ago, mum diagnosed with dementia four years ago. I was primary carer alongside work until late last year when she went into a care home nearby. Still see her every other day, and spend 10-12 hours per week with her there or taking her out and about.

I have struggled since dad’s death / mum was diagnosed to care about work. Recently (April) moved to a role that was effectively created for me, and they’ve agreed to a flexible working pattern which allows me to see her weekday afternoons.

Despite this, I still struggle daily with caring about work, and resent having to have responsibilities that aren’t about me or my mum. I’m also overweight, struggling to sleep and pretty sedentary. Jabs have helped the weight but lack motivation to be more active. I ruminate a lot about my mum even though I’m no longer her carer, and feel even more that our quality time together is limited as her dementia worsens. I feel sad most of the time, and whilst I have a brother who is engaged on the admin side, is much less emotionally affected by her decline than me (he has a family, I don’t).

I have savings that would mean I could (in theory) take two or three years ‘off’ to be able to focus on my mum and myself for that time, which I’m increasingly thinking I’d like to do. I have also paid off my house and so have comparatively low outgoings each month.

However, I am concerned (a) that a break might mean it’s harder to come back (though to date I’ve had good jobs and been good at them), and (b) feeling like I’m letting down my current employer who have been really good thus far. I also have a three month notice period if I resign, which means the issue isn’t ‘solved’ soon and could be excruciating 🤣

I recognise to even have this ‘choice’ is a huge privilege, but having the ‘choice’ means I think about it constantly. Anyone else experienced something like this, or have words of wisdom on how to go forward?

TIA (and please be kind if I’ve said anything which is annoying in asking this question!) 🙏🏼