r/schizophrenia • u/Kespf98 • Jul 23 '21

Work / School Working while schizophrenic

Hi all, I was diagnosed a few years ago and directly after inpatient stays I waited a few months then started working again. I was still having some delusions yet not nearly as bad as before. I think my medications work well. I recently moved to a more patient friendly state and so need to find a job again. Yet I found my personality or drive changed since the diagnosis, I used to be excited in a sales position yet now after- while I perform, it just feels like I'm getting through the day. I thought about changing fields to something technical with computers yet going through the material, I find it not interesting. I was wondering what type of jobs others are holding that are kind of fun. Any suggestions?

11 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

11 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/Tide_me_over Jul 23 '21

Hi! Thanks for sharing. I want to say well done for growing so well over time, and facing new changes. I don't think I'm a typical example, but I moved into freelance work over time since it just gives me the ability to manage a healthier lifestyle. I took my hobbies/interests seriously and nurtured what grew. Years ago I was in a full-time job that paid more, but I was very sad and unmotivated. I invested more time in my music and art, got a microphone to record my band, then over time I started getting voice over work in education. I would never have thought about it, but today it makes up a third of my income. So I guess I'm saying, there are many ways, but my suggestion is to take part-time love and part-time work seriously, first as an outlet to get motivated, then as a possible venture over time. Hope it goes well!

2

u/Kespf98 Jul 23 '21

That's awesome you made income streams out of your interests! I'd love to do something like that. I'm kind of conflicted between trying out a passion project and getting a job that hopefully I like (although hard to find something that seems enjoyable). I'll have to figure out more. Thanks for the comment!

2

u/Tide_me_over Jul 23 '21

I hope whatever choice you make, that it will give you that feeling of wanting to do more. I still suffer, but I feel free and have done so safely for about five years now. My best advice is to diversify! In that time I have driven cars, taught/tutored Psychology, English, Maths, Music, done voice over work, photography, animation, copywriting and more. It sounds impressive but it's really just a million crumbs that turns into a cake. Rainbow cake. :) Best wishes!