Not many role models

Janis Joplin @Elyn ?

Hi there @Elyn ,

Most definitely on can hold down a professional job while loving with schizophrenia! I work with some incredible people who have push through the challenges and made a huge difference!

Welcome to the forums! You will definitely hear the stories of real people with real stories!

@Elyn

My condition is different but I understand. I have Bipolar 2 with psychotic features. My psychotic features are triggered by stress not the typical deressive change. I have managed to hold down a job for nearly 15 years. There's been a lot of time off, I dont get annual leave as its normally used as sick leave. Ive had a couple of extended leaves to deal with more intense pychotic periods. I will admit that they have been incredibly good to me and many complanies are not so accomodating but more and more are.

I cant say I have a role model, I know there are plenty coming out as bipolar 1/2 almost like its a in fad but none with the psychotic features addition. Besides I like to forge my own path.

I dont think there is a single mental illness that when coupled with an accomodating and understanding company that the person cant be successful. I mean just look, your studying fulltime which has to be the most unaccomodating thing one can undertake. They dont care if your having a psychotic episode, a depressive episode etc. Turn in your papers on time every time or fail.

Yes its nice to have people to look to who have the same illness as you but theres nothing to say that you be the first or just excel in your chosen field

Hi @ClockFace , feel free to tag @Elyn into your post so that they receive a notification of your response - otherwise they may miss it.

You can do this by typing "@" in front of the member's name then choosing the name from the drop down menu.

Thank you @ClockFace and everyone for your kind words! I'm feeling a lot less alone.

It's reassuring to hear the experience of someone who may have been in a similar position, and yet has been able to manage the impacts of their illness on their ability to work and be successful. I'm glad to hear it is possible, and hope to work somewhere where there are supports in place for when I need it. Thanks again for your kindness!

I personally work as an engineer for a large company . My role requires me to live on site as I do on call every second week. This enables me to have a life style that supports my schizophrenia. I live by myself as my choice is to be alone. My company are extremely supportive of my mental health struggles and so I am very fortunate. I studied two degrees in engineering. Always be open to the fact you can succeed. I can assure you it's not easy but you can succeed. My biggest piece of advice is to make sure you choose an employer wisely. Remember we all have individual skills and benefits that the right employer will see. Personally I think being honest about my mental illness originally got me the job. I understand we all have our own diagnosis of schizophrenia, but please never say never. I must add, I have the most loving and supportive family. But please, beleive in yourself, you are studying, so your well on your way.

Thank you for sharing @Triumph750 what a wonderful and hopeful story. Just tagging @Elyn so they get your message above. Take care

Thank you @Triumph750 for sharing your experience 🙂 amazing to hear someone else with this illness is doing well and able to work, as an engineer no less. I personally feel supported in my studies now and will definitely look to work for an employer who is understanding and accommodating of mental health issues. Great to hear you've got your family's support behind you as well, I find that when I feel supported I can live and work to a greater capacity.

Thanks for letting me know that an independent and fulfilling life with this illness is possible!

@Elyn look up Eleanor Longden, Dr Elyn Saks, John Nash and Fred Freese. All of them were/are very successful living with schizophrenia 🙂

hello @Triumph750 , how are you going today

@Elyn , @TenLetters , @Paperdaisy , @tyme