Well this has been an interesting thread - so many of us who vehemently disagree on so many other things united by our f**ked up heads. I agree with Neurotic Cat, interesting and comforting to see others discussing their issues.
Punky, would
I dare to call you cynical?! Of course I would ya cynical young codger!
Actually I'm not sure it is that easy to fake the symptoms - and certainly not wise as a GP is just likely to take the easy option of bunging you on anti-depressants (although my husband and wife duo have advised other options, including more exercise and alternative therapies. I do reike weekly - not entirely convinced by it's Japanese healing art claims but by heck it's relaxing and nice. I recommend it). I'm sure there are those who do think they can throw a sickie by faking it but as this thread has rather dramatically exposed, these conditions are horribly widespread. And the help currently on offer is woefully inadequate.
EDIT: Escapee, you're laid back?!!
I'm a simmer till I explode type too though now I'm self employed and taken the decision to be spectacularly unambitious (and therefore cut my workload right down) I'm much more content. Poorer, but more content.