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ultramar · Sep 19, 2013, 07:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Seth412

Wow! Thanks for the response! That was enlightening. I've received some excellent feedback on this post.

I believe I have at least two personality traits that would actually be an asset, in spite of my mental illness. First, I am fairly good at removing myself from a situation emotionally. I can sort of detach myself, if you will.

Second, I am a perfectionist (thanks, OCD!). When I do something, it must be done right and well. If it is not, I am not happy. I'm constantly critiquing myself about what can be done better next time. I believe that should I become an EMT, with experience I will become an excellent one.

Just curious, what is your diagnosis?

Bipolar I + PTSD (a diagnosis which speaks more to the original source/cause, but basically generalized anxiety, with agoraphobia; getting out of the house, just getting myself to work has been tortuous at times, it used to be pretty constant, but has improved over the last 6 months or so).

I'll add that I've actually just sent in my application for Intermittent Leave of Absence under FMLA. Basically both my psychiatrist and my pain doctor (I have chronic lumbar and cervical pain + a pain disorder called Central Pain Syndrome) filled out forms with diagnoses and treatment plans, if I might need time off or reduced schedule during flare-ups, etc., etc. I decided to file for this after some time of getting push-back from my boss regarding all of my medical appointments. Any time off (including appts) would still need to be dealt with responsibly on my end and time off negotiated with management, but this does give me some back up. It's documented that I have these illnesses and may need 'accommodations' (time off, etc.) as a result of them. I consulted 2 disability specialists at the hospital where I work who suggested I do this. It's something to keep in mind, perhaps, -your HR specialist would have information on it.

Even without this, though, I've somehow managed. As I said, when I was in the management position, I barely made it through, and it's possible that with a less understanding boss (she is, we were close actually, aside from appointments, which she just doesn't seem to 'get'), I wouldn't have made it through without getting fired. I had a psychotic episode while in that position, and although I took time off during the worst of it, and was knocked off my feet by boatloads of Seroquel, I don't even remember all the craziness I must have been exhibiting at work. I'm very fortunate that I wasn't fired.

*But* after 2 years we had cutbacks, especially in middle management, I was laid off, but there was a clinical position open which I was offered and took. Turned out to be the best thing that had happened to me in a long time. I lucked out. I had been too stubborn/ashamed, etc. to admit to myself that I needed to get out of that position. Now I have a ton less stress, regular schedule, and I love what I do.

Best of luck to you!