Career Options for Diagnosed Bipolar

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-23-2003
Career Options for Diagnosed Bipolar
1
Mon, 12-13-2004 - 8:00am
Have any of you run into situations where you are not eligible for a certain type of work due to your condition? I have an M.A. in International Affairs and have been looking forward to a career in the civil service since I was 15. However, it seems you are ineligible for overseas assignments with the State Department or intelligence community if you have a mental illness. Also, I've heard that you cannot join the military or the Peace Corps. Needless to say this severely limits my options. I already have a Top Secret security clearance. One would think that if the US Government already trusts me with secrets as a private industrial contractor, working as a government employee shouldn't be a problem. But it seems to be the opposite. Has anyone else run up against these issues? I'm at a loss for what to do as all of my dreams seem to be crumbling right in front of my face.
iVillage Member
Registered: 04-09-2004
Mon, 12-13-2004 - 8:43am
I know that the military and other government agencies disqualify you for pretty much ANY pre-existing medical conditions--not just mental illnesses. It's not like you are suddenly unable to keep classified information to yourself because you have this diagnosis. I'm sorry you feel like your dreams are slipping away. I hope you find something soon that can be your new dream if the old one doesn't work out. Amanda