[Greenfish77]

I had to take fall semester off due to my bipolar not being completely managed yet. I tried getting a normal job but realized I couldn't do it due to depression. Now I'm doing some freelance rock shoveling and paint scraping which is nice since I can work in my own time and bill the hours. Do any of you have tricks or tips on how to work while depressed? Thanks.

I used to work while depressed often. I have no tips or tricks, just suggest you watch your hygiene and do your best. At my last job I'd sometimes do hardly anything when depressed or sick (often both sick and depressed).......it wasn't fair but you got to do what you got to do. My mental health didn't stop me from working, mostly my physical health with a bit of mental mixed in. I can see how mental health could stop a person from working however. (((Hugs))). I'm glad you've found part time employment which suits your needs! That must feel really good! Just do your best and stay in touch with docs....take your meds if you're on any, get good sleep and take general, good care of yourself.

[xRavenx]

Getting good sleep is important when working, although I am not very good at doing that. During hypomania, I get into a workaholic mindset, where I feel super productive and fast-paced, but that is never sustainable. When depressed, I try to choose at least one point during the day, where I sit by myself, take some deep breaths, and regroup before getting back to what I was doing. Taking breaks helps me to a degree. Also, don't set your expectations too high, or that could cause burnout. Be realistic and don't bite off more than you can chew. Self-care is a must.

[UpDownAround]

One thing I noticed is I have to think about what I need to do very short term. I mean not thinking just about what I needed to get done that day but have to think about it hour by hour. It kept me from allowing myself to do the "sigh, sit back and let an hour go by" routine. Or if I did, I knew I had to make all the other hours really count to make up for it.

[Tucson]

I am wondering if I can handle part time work. I have trouble getting going in the morning hecause I have been very depressed during that time. I als am not taking care of myself. So I am looking for thoughts on this too.

I can think of some examples of part tine work with a flexible schedule. With me it can be fixing computers. This can provide a flexible work schedule. This also is paid for in cash. I am sure there is other side work that can give a flexible work schedule. This can include handyman stuff like installing faucets, painting, and actually stuff that is easy to do but the customer does not want to spend time doing themselves. As I have already emphased, IMO a flexible part time work schedule is important.

[Sunflower123]

Relaxation is important as well. Time to let your hair down so to speak and just chill will help. Flexibility in a job is great. That's good you found something that works for you.