I worked for 20 years, somehow keeping my job, even through episodes. It was tough, but somehow I did it. I would use all my vacation days to recover from either illness, depression or usually both. I came home after work and crashed when depressed or cleaned if manic. I would call in sick when needed and try not to beat myself up over it. If I would not have gotten increasingly physically ill, I would still be working. I've been unable to work for physical reasons for several years. My BP has gotten much worse but I've had a ton of other factors too. I do believe that working in the RIGHT PLACE can be very stabilizing. Especially if you work with supportive people.