[Jifiner]

I was diagnosed BP1 at 17 in 1993. Since then I had 1 manic episode in 2006 that I was hospitalized for. Usually my problem is depression, which I was hospitalized for the second time earlier this year (2014). However about a month ago I started feeling manic again. I've talked to my family doc, my therapist and my psych. I refuse to go back into the hospital again and they've changed my meds again.

My dilemma is I am a teacher. In 2012 I was out of work on FMLA leave for 12 weeks. Earlier this year I was out for 2 weeks. I have no sick time left. My dr will not sign off on FMLA or disability without me going in the hospital. My principal is retaliating and giving me a hard time also. I don't know what choices I have left. I don't feel like I can be responsible for adolescents right now if I can't even be responsible for myself. I feel like a danger to myself but I don't know what to do.

Is it totally out of the question to go IP if it means your doctor will sign off on FMLA and you can be safe? It sounds like going back to work will only make things worse, in which case you might end up IP anyway?

I say this, knowing that I too am trying to stay out of the hosp, but I don't have to face a roomful of adolescents, which would probably do me in on a good day.

[Victoria'smom]

Can you see if you can go to an acute stablization unit or a crisis center instead of the hospital? usually its 24-72 hours and you could do it friday after school and possibly be out in time for Monday.