My first work shift went very well. I could not have imagined a better first shift. 5 hours was a perfect start. I spent most of the day sitting constant with a secluded forensic patient. I also did roll call and completed an online training module on the provincial staffing system between rounds. I got a 30 minute break; I’m not sure whether or not it was paid. I’m looking forward to my shifts this weekend.

I also had physio. It was supposed to be my last session on my shoulders, but since a new “year” started in April, I may be eligible for a few more. I saw my psychiatrist today and we discussed my cycling. I said I was cycling between 3 and 7, when I would prefer to stay between 4 and 6. I can cope with the 3-7 spread if I need to since I can force myself out of bed and complete activities at the mildly depressed 3; but right now I am on a low dose of a single mood stabilizer, i.e. Latuda, so we are increasing the dose and adding a low dose of valproate as well.

I talked to my psychiatrist about my anxiety regarding my AISH acceptance, as well as how much I could/should work on it, and he is very confident I will get it. He said the last 3 years of cycling and hospitalizations has made his case for him. He said that he has had patients who it was much more difficult to make a case on get the benefits. That reassures me some. I should have an answer before I see him again in mid-May.