I’ve taken five LOAs in the past six years I’ve been teaching. You might say teaching is not good for me lol. Anyway this past year I just started at a new school and by November I was hospitalized for psychotic depression. Then took leave for 3 months. I returned on February 1. I am almost certain they are going to fire me; however I think it has more to do with the fact that I can’t do my job properly than bipolar. Except it’s because of bipolar that I can’t do my job...anyway. In my old job I took LOA every year I was there and they still didn’t fire me (they were desperate though). When I would return the admin would be very supportive but my coworkers were gossipers. One even talked about me In front of a student and that student later used the info against me. It was a negative environment. I left.

As for lifting depression, well, I’m still trying to figure that one out. For me it seems smaller things like self care help temporarily but only med changes actually lift me out. Or I have to wait for my natural cycle to cycle back around, which is a ***** because I never know how long it will be. But things that help temporarily are soothing with the senses, ie putting on nice smelling lotion, and snuggling under my weighted blanket. I also listen to music constantly. Depressing **** but it helps me feel less alone. Writing on here helps too.

I’ve recently found that exercise does indeed help me but unfortunately I am unable to get to the gym as much as I’d like to. And unable to exercise at home in any meaningful way. But if you could get out hiking it will help, especially to be out In the sunshine.

I’m sorry this was rather rambly. I wish you well! Just wanted to let you know you’re not alone.