Hopeful, it is a hard decision to decide to go and stay on disability. Each person has his/her own reason to be on it. I am a nurse and for me it is very important to be able to act professionally when at work. Anymore, even when I am well and even though I could go a few days or weeks without any flare-ups of any kind, I know that I can not work professionally any more. It is known that increased stress causes flare-ups and there is too much stress as a nurse! The last 2 years while working, I averaged flared-ups every 3-4 months, sometimes severe, sometimes mild. I would have to call-off work every time, sometimes for 2-3 weeks. I got on the disability and this time I think I will stay on it.

Anyways Hopeful, your decision to go on disability will be based on how you think and feel.You will also need to maintain professionalism while working as a teacher and teaching will also cause high stress. Do you feel like you will be able to do that job? How bad do you feel? Are your flare-ups mild or severe? When your symptoms are mild, are they mild enough for you to work at that time? How often do you have flare-ups and how often do you call-in sick as a result?

Why did your doctor say it is too soon for a diagnosis? Was it because he doesn't know you (he wasn't going to Dx you from history alone)? Are you able to go back to a doc who knows you? I am pretty sure that your Dx (even without bipolar) are acceptable Dx for disability as long as it causes you to be disabled.

I hope this helps. Good luck!!!