I have been recently diagnosed with Bipolar II. Which is less severe then Bipolar I which is known as Bipolar. My dream has been to get a minor in Social Work and a major in Psychology. With the hopes that I may be a Clinical Psychologist for a Probation Office or some where sililiar. I fear now that this diagnoses may keep me from being able to do this. Has anyone ever heard of someone with Bipolar having a successful career in Psychology?
2007-03-15 11:54:45 · 12 answers · asked by princessmeanssarah 1 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Yes it is very possible. In fact it is illegal for them to keep you out of the program based on your diagnosis. Now if you don't manage your symptoms that is a different story. But the diagnosis won't keep you out or keep you from being successful. Obviously you will need to have a good support system and and strategies, but all students need these. Having a diagnosis can make you a good advocate for others. DA
2007-03-15 14:30:59 · answer #1 · answered by Dr_Adventure 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes. One of the best books on being bipolar was written by Kay Redfield Jamieson, who's a psychiatrist (I'm sorry - I've got a complete block about her book's title but it should be easy to look up) and you'll probably be a better one because you've shared some of the experiences.
In my experience of knowing psychiatrists, it's those who have no emotional life of their own who are actually the least use to their patients. Just make sure (common sense coming up) that you take your medication *and* you have the talking therapy as well - direction is biochemical and content is personal, you need to deal with both - and there should be nothing in principle to stop you.
All the very best to you.
2007-03-15 12:08:01 · answer #2 · answered by mrsgavanrossem 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Firstly, I'd have to ask you what makes you think you have a bipolar disorder? Have you explored this clinically? This is one of the many "popular" diagnoses bantied about today. Most people don't even know what "schizophrenia" actually refers to (it is NOT "split personality" the 2 are very distinct).
See yourself as human first and suffering a "diagnosis" secondly. If you do that, you could be a very successful psychologist.
2007-03-15 12:04:51 · answer #3 · answered by Jon L 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I haven't heard of any but I am sure there are plenty. A Bipolar II person can hold any job if they are appropriately medicated. Flexibility of hours and less stress would be ideal, of course.
2007-03-15 11:58:39 · answer #4 · answered by M1980 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I know a psychologists that is bipolar. I don't know if she was that way 'before.'
You can probably ask the same question if a doctor has a broken arm can he treate a broken arm.
I'd think the key is if the bipolar was controlled.
2007-03-15 12:00:16 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Just get on the proper meds. I work with many people that have mental health issues and they are completely functional. I work in social services. You will be fine.
2007-03-15 11:58:39 · answer #6 · answered by Dragonfly 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bipolars make good psychologists because it takes one to understand and know one
2007-03-15 11:59:20 · answer #7 · answered by Mon-chu' 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I know of mental health doctors who check in to the mental health center periodically. They have learned to recognize in themselves when they need treatment and they do get it and when they are well enough they go back to their practice and treat others. Dont let it hold you back.
2007-03-15 14:04:36 · answer #8 · answered by sexmagnet 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes, but it is going to be harder to get there. If that is what you want and you can commit yourself to the grind of college for 6 years (at least) then it can and has been done!!
2007-03-15 12:02:36 · answer #9 · answered by Dovey 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Personally, I don't take advice from people who haven't had any life experience in that particular field of study. For instance, I can't take advice from non-parents about parenting, etc...
I'd say, Go for it!! You have alot of personal experience to stand on!!
2007-03-15 12:16:51 · answer #10 · answered by chevy 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋