Bipolar 2: Reaching Employment Stability and Leaving SSI Benefits

Managing bipolar 2 and seeking to leave SSI (Supplemental Security Income) in favor of employment can be a challenging yet rewarding journey, provided you take the right steps. This article discusses the process and provides insights from real-life experiences to guide you through this transition.

Understanding SSI and SSDI

To leave SSI, it is crucial to understand the differences between SSI and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance). If you are receiving SSI, you can notify your case manager at the local human services center of your intent to find employment. This will help them adjust your benefits when you start earning income. For SSDI recipients, working without penalty is possible if your income remains below the SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) limit (set at $1,170 a month for 2017).

Consulting Healthcare Providers and Case Managers

Before making any decisions, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider and case manager. Your healthcare provider can offer valuable insights based on your medical history and current treatment plan. A case manager can provide guidance and ensure that your transition is managed smoothly. These professionals can offer personalized advice and make the process less daunting.

As the individual, you have the final say in making these decisions. The opinions of your healthcare provider and case manager can help you make informed choices. Many people with bipolar 2 have successfully managed their condition and maintained employment, as demonstrated by prominent figures such as Abraham Lincoln, Isaac Newton, Michelangelo, Demi Lovato, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Jean-Claude Van Damme.

Managing Bipolar II Manic and Depressive Episodes

Bipolar II, characterized by less severe manic episodes than Bipolar I, can be effectively managed. During the depressive phase, maintaining a positive mindset is key. By establishing habits and recognizing early signs of depression, you can take proactive steps to counteract or deflect negative moods. With the right treatment, many individuals can succeed in their career and no longer rely on SSI benefits.

Personal experiences, such as my own, support the idea that with proper management, you can adapt and thrive. After 35 years of working and treating serious depression, I found that recognizing my mood changes and acting immediately allowed me to have productive weeks followed by recovery periods. My niece, who is a truck driver, also successfully managed her bipolar 2 symptoms and worked for 15 years while raising two children. Her ability to recognize mood changes allowed her to maintain her job and request reasonable accommodations that supported her medical needs.

Balancing Work and Benefits

If you can work only a few hours a week due to your condition, you can still benefit from the experience. While such work may be enjoyable and promote personal growth, you must ensure that your household does not exceed SSI limits. Tracking and adjusting your household finances and assets can help you maintain your benefits. Regular communication with your case manager is crucial to understand the exact impact of your earnings on benefits.

One of the key steps is to document your efforts to find and remain in work. This can provide a clear picture to both your case manager and the SSA. Have a realistic discussion with your case manager to understand the specific changes that will occur in your benefit structure and how you can transition without losing financial support.

In conclusion, transitioning from SSI to a more stable employment scenario with bipolar 2 is possible with careful planning and support. Consultation with healthcare providers and case managers, as well as a deep understanding of SSI and SSDI, can help you make informed decisions that benefit your long-term well-being.