Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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jellybeanmusic 09/09/2011

I had to leave school when i was 11 due to some problems i was having with my mental health.

I've done nothing since, just focused on looking after myself.

I eventually got diagnosed with bipolar with psychosis and i've been on a few different medications for it so far (none have quite worked out yet though).

But at aged 16 you leave school here (UK) and go on to collage or work. I opted for work, since it was easier for me to get (since i know the manager at a factory in town) and i thought i'd cope with that better than going into education after nothing since i was 11. I mean, if i get even better still i would maybe look into going back into education later in life.

So, i went for the interview today and they offered me the job on the spot and i start on Monday. So i'd be working 7am-5pm Monday-Thursday and then if i want to i can do overtime on Friday and/or Saturday (overtime hours are less though, but more money)

But i'm worrying about if things go really sour with my mental health again (its in a manageable state at the moment, though still not amazing).

Or if i feel i can't keep up with things in there, or how i get on with other people in the work place (since i just don't really know how to be around people, i'm quite socially awkward).

So, do you have any tips on how to survive and make the job a success? Because i really would like it to be... I already chose the same work place as my partner, for motivation to get up, and get a lift with her in the mornings. Anything else?

Thanks for replies :)

deleted_user 09/09/2011

in the US we have the family medical leave act where you can take off a certain amount of time either for yourself or a close family member, I think up to 12 weeks in a calendar year. Does the UK have any protection like that for workers?

jellybeanmusic 09/09/2011

I think so, though i'm not sure if it applies for all jobs. I'm almost certain i'd get no money if i had to take time off (other than allowed holiday leave) and possibly lose the job.

deleted_user 09/09/2011

I should have also said a few other things...for me routine is absolutely important. Meds, meal times, when I walk the dog...it's all a well rehearsed chaos. I think if your employer is going to be keeping scheduled hours for you that will be a good thing. My last job was as an assistant manager of a retail store, where hours were wildly different from one day to the next and I could not take it anymore. Then add migraines and now fibromyalgia, I won't be going back. But I think if you can get a routine down, it will help you situation immensely

deleted_user 09/09/2011

I would just take things one day at a time and do the best you can. It is great that you already have a friend there. I think that will help with the social issue. I hope it goes well for you!

deleted_user 09/09/2011

i find that powering throught work help with self esteem when there are those days when you feel like you cant do it you just get throughjt and wow i did i have days where i dont think it going to happen but they do and with the illness you can get time off but rotuine is important i get up before work and do something coffe read but at night i do things to make sure i dont get manic after work you can do something but i write and if i get involded in something after work that amps me up i just cant sleep and then it on from there but if i mange and force myself to sleep it boring at tiems but the reward is a life that can work for you it not always easy but i think it is worth it

jellybeanmusic 09/09/2011

Thanks for the tips guys :)

olenka1 09/09/2011

The only thing that has helped me keep down my current full-time job for 5 years is having a strong support network & taking meds.My manager & team leader are part of my support network aswell which has helped a lot.I've had to have sick leave a few times which I can count on one hand.It's not always easy but it's possible to hold down a job with the right support etc.Good luck with everything.

deleted_user 09/09/2011

I guess I don't really have any advice for you. I guess it is as it is and I don't know how to make it any better. What I want to say is to take the job and worry about doing the best you can instead of worrying about what will happen and what if. I admire you for getting a job and plunging forward. I personally know how hard it is to first get a job and second to have the health issues. Please know you have already shown your strength by getting the job. Good luck to you!

tats69 09/09/2011

You are sooooo thinking too much about the coulda's, woulda's and that's a big negative in dealing with life and any illness.

Try to keep focused on what is right in front of you and deal with what comes AS IT COMES!!! We spend so much time worrying about all the what if's that is really keeps us from living in the now and if we aren't living in the now....then we really are not living life to the fullest.

I know easier said than done...takes work but it CAN be done and keep telling yourself that you are a bright, perfectly capable young woman and that you CAN make this work. The positive thinking really does work!

I wish you the very best!! oxox

MageMichael 09/10/2011

Hey I couldn't say anthing better than tats69, that is great advice. I just want to say I agree with everything tat69 posted.
Good luck to you,
Michael

MageMichael 09/10/2011

Oh by the way I would not let anyone at work know you are bipolar. Because of some issues that came up I let my boss and HR know I was bipolar and now they are using it as a reason to demote or get rid of me. Which is bullshit because I am extremely valuable to the organization but managers have a different mind set. I wish I had never let the cat out of the bag. I don't care about their crap because I can get a job from IBM in no time and I can work at home so f*** them and their bullshit. Sorry got off on a rant there. Good luck with the job, sounds like you nailed it! Congrats! And belive in yourself, us beepers are a smart lot.
Take care,
Michael

jellybeanmusic 09/10/2011

Thanks for all you kind words, support and advice, i really appreciate it :)

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