The balance

This time last year I was balancing a fulfilling job, and being a wife and mother to 5 school-age kids. Then... the episode hit in February this year (my 3rd manic episode in 10 years).
I've had to leave work because as I claw my way back to "normality", I only have energy for my kids. And not even that sometimes.
But I'm aching with grief for the job I left, even though I know this decision is crucial for my family.
Has anybody else left work due to BP? Or had to choose between work and family?

I hope things are getting better for you. I know how hard it can be. I had to make that choice at one point in my life and I choose family because I thought it was the right thing to do. Now that my kids are grown and I am divorced I wish I would have done what was best for me! I would not be in the bind I am in now. I was able to go back to work and take care of family after a while, but it takes time. Get yourself well first. How's that saying go? If mama ain't happy no one is! Sounds like it is time for some TLC for yourself. We are here for you. I wish you well.

I had a very severe bipolar depression in 2001. I lost my job and career. I have never re-entered the workforce.

For years, I had jobs and volunteer jobs in my nightly dreams. They eventually disappeared.

A major life change is never easy. My children are adults and not in great need for my attention. With 5 school age children, you are needed at home. Taking care of yourself by taking time away from work may be a good thing. Look at your new role as a stay at home mom, and at the time you can spend helping yourself heal, as your new career. In the future, you might find another career opportunity. Life is full of twists, turns and surprises. Enjoy where you are now, the best you can, and the future will take care of itself. Living in the moment, without regrets and rumination about the past, is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself.

I have to agree with Sad&Bipolar, take care of yourself first and then your kids. Wow you have quite a houseful. Kudos to you for balance that alone.

I went off sick in 2011 from an amazing job. Although it's still there waiting for me, realistically I'm not going to be able to return to that career. Which makes me very sad.
I actually don't even know when I'll get the ok to go back into the workforce, It doesn't look like anytime soon. My moods are just to unstable.

So here I am, 50 years old, divorced and 2 adult child with no career, not to mention trying to manage this disorder.

I'm having to learn to live in the moment which is not an easy task for me but is necessary. I've gotten this far, something will turn up.

So live for the moment, raise your babies and try and enjoy them as much as you can because I'm telling you, before you know it, they're grown up and gone.

Thanks to you all for your encouragement, support and wisdom. Sad&Bipolar, you are right. Living in the moment, and enjoying my new career at home is the way to go. All the best to all of you.