psychiatric problems and employment - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

jaamoo · 01-15-2004, 02:36 PM

I have a list of psychiatric problems and i have a real problem with keeping a job, either b/c i quit while having a fit, or just feel that its not worth it. My moods play a pretty key role in my horrible success rate with jobs. I know from these boards that this is fairly common with bi polar people, but is there any place that specifically employs mental patients? or helps to get us simple jobs? that can help us keep the job? I am starting my treatment regimen next week, but have already seen the outreach therapist and so I am not real sure what their take on the job thing is. But I am going even crazier worrying about money (to make a long story short, we will not get a tax refund and we need a new roof and bathroom for our home real soon. and my husbands income is barely enough for us to pay bills and buy food. so i feel the need for a job so we can provide these things)
I figured i would ask here since everyone is so knowledgeable.

Thanks so much!

wobbly · 01-15-2004, 04:09 PM

Hi jaamoo, I'm in PA too and in our nearest city the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation helps people with stuff like that. If that's not an option for you, maybe you can apply for less stressful part-time jobs. It is important to keep your stress levels manageable.
Keep us posted on how your treatment goes. I wish you all the best.

potchrazebie · 01-18-2004, 07:04 PM

jaamoo,
Have you thought of applying for SSDI (social security disability income)?
It really sounds to me like your condition interferes with your work and ability to keep a job, so I suspect it would qualify as a disability. I have been on ssdi before (1994) and am applying again. I have a job behavior history similar to yours plus I get in a lot of arguments at work.
Getting ssdi can be a lengthy and frustrating process to go through, but I have never heard of anyone being turned down. Feel free to ask me any questions about ssdi, i am by no means an expert but i can try to answer them or send you in the right direction.
The biggest tip I would offer is get a lawyer who specializes in ssdi. They will do it pro bono. If you don't have a lawyer it will be harder to prove your case, and the judge (whom you may end up seeing) will get really ****ed if you walk into his room without a lawyer. Don't be intimidated by the fact that i have mentioned the word "judge", you may not have to see one, and even if you do you may not have to say anything to him/her. That is what the lawyer is for.

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"Yeah, and the more I practice, the luckier I get!"
--Arnold Palmer, replying to someone who said to him that he had made a lucky shot in a golf game.