[themoonandbach]

Does anyone know any resources in Indiana to help people who are bipolar find a job that can adapt to my needs? I have done research but I cant find anything.

[Victoria'smom]

FSSA: Vocational Rehabilitation / Employment

[ultramar]

Originally Posted by themoonandbach

Does anyone know any resources in Indiana to help people who are bipolar find a job that can adapt to my needs? I have done research but I cant find anything.

This is really interesting. How do you think a job could adapt to your needs? At my current job I needed to change my schedule 1 day a week to accommodate therapy -it turned out to be a huge struggle, and I work in health care! I also have my psychiatrist appointments during my lunch time, though sometimes I go over -I let my boss know of this possibility ahead of time, though I don't tell her what kind of appointment it is. I have medical appointments I do the same thing with.

I have a colleague with medical issues that necessitated a reduction in her hours. Other colleagues have appointments that they go to during lunch, as I do.

Of course it depends on your situation, but I don't think it's always necessary to reveal what kind of appointment you need to go to, in other words, you could ask for the time off in the same way others do for medical appointments or other things.

As far as when I've been 'sick.' I've use my Earned Time when I've needed to take time off, like others for different things. Usually after being employed someplace for a year, you can use ESL (Extended Sick Leave) if you need more time off, just with a note from your doctor. This applies to all medical/psychiatric illnesses.

Some employers have EAP (Employee Assistance Program) where you can talk to someone (a counselor) about issues you're having at work, for whatever reason. These are confidential.

Are you referring to revealing your diagnosis to an employer and asking for specific adaptations to your needs? I know I'd feel super-uncomfortable doing that. I'm really interested to know what you plan to do, what kinds of adaptations you're looking for, and what kind of help is out there.

Thanks for posting!