Doing what I can handle for now.

[Wesleytodd]

I have bipolar 2 ,am 38 ,have a wonderfull family but struggle working at home and having panic attacks while operating machinery. I decided to travel and do a job that puts less stress on myself but many people dont understand why I dont work at home and I am doing just what I can handle:mindless physical labor just seems to keep me in balance and helps me enjoy coming home to my family,so am I wrong to travel and reduce my stress?

[Suzie40]

I don’t think you’re wrong at all. You’ve identified a need and have taken measures to control it. Don’t lose sleep worrying about other people and their thoughts - the only person’s behaviour you can control is your own.

[Sandia]

Nope, you need to do what’s best for you. Other people probably won’t understand because they are not walking in your shoes. If this job is better for you then keep doing it.

[MAS_Nurse]

Hello Wesleytodd, In answer to your question, absolutely not! You have to do what works for you and your family. Managing stress has a big part to play in coping with Bipolar, and finding the right work-life balance that works for you is important. Others similar to yourself have also found working in less stressful situations and working outside e.g. gardening really helps them. Even folks with no health problems have broken away from the mold of 9-5 office, factory settings and become Travel Bloggers, photographers etc and found creative ways to generate income in new ways. Turn disabilities into creative possibilities!! Take a look too at this site fro WebMD:

webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/...

Hope this helps.

Take care & best wishes.

MAS Nurs