Parents...

[msshoothingstar]

Recently I found out that (at 25) I had to move back in with my parents for financial reasons. I am bipolar and have always had issues with my mother. It isn't something I think I can do for a long time but at the moment I'm considering going back to school, for nursing, which will last another two years. I don't think I'll be able to work while I'm doing this so I'm going to be stuck here another two years. But I'm not entirely sure what my others options are? At least once this nursing degree is complete I'll have a job to help get me out of this situation.

My question is: Do any bipolars have massive problems with their parents/parents' actions? What can be done to help these blow-ups? Should I be looking for an apartment instead of going back to school (again)?

[Londres70]

In my opinion, I think there are issues when adult children move back into the home and it doesn't really have anything to do with being Bipolar or not.  Parent and adult children relationships are DEFINITELY different than parent and young children relationships.  I think these issues are exacerbated by the fact you are Bipolar.

Perhaps you can attend school part-time, work and find low-income housing.  Ask about scholarships and grants that are offered through the school; you wouldn't have to pay them back. Also, there are catalogs that you can look through (usually available in libraries) that lists NUMEROUS scholarships and grants that you might be eligible for.  I definitely wouldn't take out a school loan at this time; the interest rates CAN be a killer. Plus, you already have financial issues and I am not certain anyone would be able to offer you a loan.  I am really not a fan of loans between family members as this could cause issues as well.  

Are there any agencies or programs in your area that offer low-income housing and/or help to find jobs/positions or offer job training for persons with mental health issues such as yourself?  

Nursing school is definitely no "piece of cake"; I am a Registered Nurse with a Masters and I also have a Baccalaureate degree in Biochemistry.  If you are going for an Associate's degree it will be longer than 2 years; usually 2-3 years going full-time.  Make certain your Bipolar is very stable prior to starting school and be prepare for a high level of stress.

Just curious:  Were you working before moving in with your parents?  Were you living on your own before?  What exactly caused the financial issues?  

[specialmom]

Hi. Well basically, yes.  Lots of bi polar folks have relationship issues with parents and various others they are close to.  One key is to make sure you are treating your disorder to its fullest, taking meds on time, seeking talk therapy when needed or regularly and speaking with your psychiatrist regularly.  Staying on top of this will help you across the board.  

Hm.  I don't know if you could come up with other options during school but if you think it will be too volatile or stressful for everyone then it might be good to try to come up with a few.  What about a loan?  Perhaps your parents know that having your own place would be best and they help you find cheap housing and loan you the money until you get out of school,  then you pay them back.  School loans that also cover housing are common for university students. Yes, you come out owing money but plenty of folks do it.  Also, if you do stay at your parents, I'd try try try to have a small part time job so that you can pay them a bit of rent.  This will help the dynamics of the household if you do.  

I do wish you luck dear.