As of next Jan. I will be working for the Federal govt 26 years. I worked 9 years before I knew Iwas bipolar. I've had to work. I have to take care of myself. Nobody else will take care of me. I tried once to get medical retirement and they told me my work was too good. If I couldn't do the work now I could get it. But it's not too bad. I can do it. It's all in the attitude. Male or female. Bipolar or whatever. Yes, you need meds and therapy. But you have to have the attitude that you're gonna take care of yourself and maybe your wife or husband or kids.