I will try to keep this brief. I suffer from bipolar disorder (which started 7 years ago following the birth of DD2). It is a blight on my lifeI have 3-4 major epsiodes per year. These involve either the Acute Response Team coming into my house, or being admitted. Not suprisingly, it's had a big impact on my work. I've had 2-3 months off sick every year since 2013. My episodes are quite seasonalat their worst between April -October. The seasonal aspect means that I've always managed to keep going with my teaching, although it's been a struggle at times ( it's screwed my research).
Anyway, I'm in the midst of a long and dark episode, which is out of the normal seasonal pattern. I've battled away for 6 weeks now, but I'm losing my grip. I've kept on top of teaching, but other work (esp admin) is in a mess. I'm starting to think I may have to go on sick leave as I'm just getting more poorly.
I dont know how they will handle my teaching if I do go on sick leave. It's a 4th year class so there is no way that anybody can take over. There are assessed presentations in the module (6 students are yet to present). I don't know how this could be covered.
Does anyone have advice on how to approach this? My dean is very much aware of my illness and is very, very supportive. They have no issues with my level of sickness, but I don't want to add any more time off if I can help it.