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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Atwaterkent911 02/20/2008

What kind of work have those of you with BP been able to perform?

I have used my mind for 17 years after my initial BP melt down as an engineer. I have had to force my mind to work every day. I can no longer do this. I do not know what kind of job I can do now. Computer work is out as it makes me get so stressed out. I cannot use my mind to think and analyze things as I once did. I cannot work with people as the meds and the condition make me want to isolate.

I am looking to those here at DS who have been able to find some new job that works well with them coupled with having BP.

deleted_user 02/24/2008

weird, i feel this. i think thats why i went back to school for a career change.

deleted_user 02/24/2008

I went through the exact same thing. 10 years in HVAC engineering and then I had my meltdown. I decided to go and become an estimator for a contractor instead. Still use the computer but the stress level is MUCH lower. You should look into something in the same general field but with less stress. What type of engineering were you in if you don't mind me asking?

deleted_user 02/25/2008

Wow. I'm just sitting at work myself thinking "I can't do this. This job I have is the perfect job for the old me, but I can't do it now. My mind is so blurry, I can't concentrate, I can't seem to get on the same wavelength with the people I work with...I think I need a job that well-trained monkeys could do. Good luck.

BettyB 02/25/2008

I was a registered dietitian for over 10 years. I have gotten worse over the years. In the past cutting down on the hours has helped. I requested that at my last two professional jobs. Neither would do that!! I have looked for part time in my field. It does happen but is a rare thing.
Currently I am a stay at home mom with 3 kids. I tried to be a part time cashier at Target about 6 months ago. I thought a lower stress job would help and get me out of the house. I had a melt down.
I am planning on trying again when the kids start school. Maybe sooner. I just can't seem to get it together.
I did very part time work that was flexible as a mystery shopper and working at the polls. That was even tricky, but something that I could do.
In short: part time or temporary. Volunteer or school. I don't know what you money situation is.

deleted_user 02/25/2008

i hate being around people, i was self employed for a while but had to close it as it was too stressful dealing with the staff i had to take on! now work 4 hours a day, 3 days a week signwriting, this channels my creative side without the need to interract with the public as my boss does that for me.

deleted_user 02/27/2008

I was Q.A. inspected for years. Then taught pre-school for 6 years. Tryed office work. Lsat working at a molding company. I can't do any of them any more. I wish I could help but I'm looking for the same thing.

deleted_user 02/27/2008

i would love to know the answer to that myself. maybe part time work would help and make some lifestyle changes to accomodate that or the school idea isn't a bad idea.

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