[dog daze]

So in 2007 I took a 2 year leave of absence for a really bad episode. I've been back to work since 2009, but not without difficulty. This year my work load has increased and I find myself falling behind with grading student writing and getting data entered. In the past I have disclosed my bipolar, but this is a relatively new principal and I haven't explicitly told him I need an accommodation under the ADA. Now I'm in trouble and about to get a letter in my file for not getting grades in the computer for like 5 weeks. I need advice about how to explain bipolar to my boss without sounding like I can't do the job.

[wildflowerchild25]

I don't have any suggestions, I just wanted to tell you I commiserate. I worked at a private school for four years and had to take extended time off every year for episodes. I never asked for accommodations other than time off and I never specifically said bipolar but I'm sure they figured it out. They at the very least knew it was mental illness because all my notes came from the local psych hospital and local psych partial program.

This was my first year working in a public school and also the first year I didn't have an episode and I was fired. Well, non-renewed. Really made me rethink my place in education. Even without episodes I'm not good enough. I would never have revealed bipolar in this school though, I'd be too afraid. I wish you lots of luck, I hope someone else has better advice.

[Wild Coyote]

It's my understanding one must request accommodations before something goes awry, not afterward.

In other words it's to your advantage to ask for accommodations before something is placed in your file.

I am no expert on any of this.

I'd do some research on how much I need to explain about my condition.
Maybe someone here can help. Yet, if advice here happens to be in error, you may pay a price for taking such advice.

This involves your career and your livelihood. Be sure your sources of info. are accurate.

As to whether or not you can do the job, that should be obvious. If you are doing your job, you can do your job.

Please protect yourself.


WC

[bioChE]

Like WC said, be careful with information here. At times we're wont to rampant speculation.

If you're at all wondering about your rights, you should really consult an attorney who specializes in these matters. Buying an hour of their time could be the best investment you could make.

[lilypup]

I totally agree with the above advice. My daughter has used the ADA to help her at work. Get an attorney and utilize your union advocate if you have one. As a matter of fact, often unions have an attorney on call. Check there first.

I agree with all of the above posters. I could never advise how to explain bipolar to someone because my bipolar is much different than the other people I know with the condition. The issues that I have that keep me from performing are not the exact same issues other people with the condition have. Get professional advise on this one....too much on the line otherwise. Good luck.