[CraigsMuse1960]

Happy May 1st, everyone...

I am a mental health professional who has bipolar disorder. I'm also a 24/7 "spotter" for my 86 year old mother who is healthy and still drives but also needs someone to live with and help her.

I think I am going to be offered a a really good job that would be a good career move for me. The problem is that I'd be working three 12 hour overnight shifts a week. I'm not sure I can handle that, and I'm not sure it would be a good idea for me with regard to my mental health. I have most if not all of the standard problems with round the clock drowsiness and cognitive problems from not only the illness but the meds as well. I'm 54 years old and past the age where I'm energetic enough (I think) to work long, odd hours.

I don't know what to do. I really don't think it would be good for me to work such hours, but I think my family with be upset with me if I don't. I'm meeting with my psychiatrist on May 18th and will discuss with her, but am also seeking opinions from "people like me".

[Hexagram]

You're well aware of your limitations and already know that the new job will be too much for you. You can explain to your upset family that what looks like a good and necessary career move will likely be stressful enough to trigger your illness and shut you down. Who then will spot mom? Your family should be most concerned with you maintaining stability for your own well-being and so that you can take care of your mother.

I agree with Hexagram. As difficult as it may be, I suggest that you sit down with your family and explain to them what you just explained to us: how it would not be feasible for you to work those hours. Good luck.

[CraigsMuse1960]

Originally Posted by Hexagram

You're well aware of your limitations and already know that the new job will be too much for you. You can explain to your upset family that what looks like a good and necessary career move will likely be stressful enough to trigger your illness and shut you down. Who then will spot mom? Your family should be most concerned with you maintaining stability for your own well-being and so that you can take care of your mother.

Thank you.

[CraigsMuse1960]

Originally Posted by newgal2

I agree with Hexagram. As difficult as it may be, I suggest that you sit down with your family and explain to them what you just explained to us: how it would not be feasible for you to work those hours. Good luck.

Thank you.

[RisuNeko]

You could adjust your medication times to accomodate your work schedule so that you're not feeling sedated at work. I work the evening shift at my work (I'm in a health profession, also and have bipolar) it's only 2-11pm but I changed what times I take my meds and it's worked out fine. I take my wellbutrin which is fairly stimulating at around noon so it lasts throughout my shift, and I take my Geodon around 9pm so that I'm tired when I get home and can sleep. I don't know if you have an option like this, but it's just an idea.

Also, I only work 4 days a week, and I find that having 3 days off allows me to really recuperate. Having 4 days off yourself could be enough of recuperation to make it okay to work the 3 12s.

[CraigsMuse1960]

Thank you for responding to my post, I appreciate it.

I spoke with my psychiatrist about this and she said she advises her patients with bipolar to not work overnights. Knowing what I know about myself and my energy level, I just don't think I can handle it. I was offered the job and talked it over with several family members, all of whom (surprisingly) concurred overnights would be too taxing. Maybe 10 years ago I could have done it, but I was working long, odd hours even then and barely getting by. I guess I feel like I'm too old to start something like this. Anyway, I declined the job but did offer to work prn and on call and they offered me that kind of position. That way I have a little more control over when I work and when I can't. Because some days I just can't.

Hope you are doing well.

[AncientMelody]

Sounds like you made a smart decision for you! I couldn't do the overnight thing either

[IceCreamKid]

Originally Posted by CraigsMuse1960

Thank you for responding to my post, I appreciate it.

I spoke with my psychiatrist about this and she said she advises her patients with bipolar to not work overnights. Knowing what I know about myself and my energy level, I just don't think I can handle it. I was offered the job and talked it over with several family members, all of whom (surprisingly) concurred overnights would be too taxing. Maybe 10 years ago I could have done it, but I was working long, odd hours even then and barely getting by. I guess I feel like I'm too old to start something like this. Anyway, I declined the job but did offer to work prn and on call and they offered me that kind of position. That way I have a little more control over when I work and when I can't. Because some days I just can't.

Hope you are doing well.

I think you did the right thing. Good self-care is important, especially for those who care for others. I no longer have the energy to work flat-out, non-stop, 27/7 and I'm not going to apologize for it. I still have plenty to offer and I'm still interested in working hard, but I am equally interested in maintaining the quality of my non-working hours. Good for you for coming to the decision you did.