[mac666]

Hi not sure what all to say, I was diagnosed with bipolar in 2000, lost everything my business, house and so called friends. Since then I have done my svq3 in social care and then went to university and did my BA Hons in Social Work. However, encouraging and intriguing to people with mental health issue this may be, I am disappointed to have to tell you that even after all this I am finding it almost impossible to gain full time work as a social worker due to the discrimination and stigma facing people with mental health illnesses. It’s easy to get a job if you don’t mention anything about your mental health illness as soon as you do they don’t want you working for them anymore.

[Direction]

Welcome! Glad you could post...

In the US we are starting to see a movement towards peer support...consumer as provider...and is something I'm interested in pursuing.

I'm sorry that you seem to be facing such stigma in Scotland. So are you still working and feeling that they want you gone or were you terminated already?

[sugahorse1]

Hi there and welcome. I look forward to your input and thoughts to the various topics here.
I've just made the decision to disclose to my HR dep but not my management, and treading a bit lightly to see how things go.
I'm sorry things have been so difficult for you

[blueoctober]

Welcome Mac66. Do you feel it's necessary to disclose your illness? Really it's none of their business and it's your choice whether you disclose.