I have thought of the freelance answer before. Saying I'm a freelance writer, but then I'm afraid someone will ask oh what for, etc... I guess I could do some research so I have an answer.

Pretty much my only socialization comes from Al-Anon meetings. The ppl there know I have some mental issues b/c I talk about therapy sometimes in shares. The ones I'm closer to know I'm on SSA disability, but don't ask or seem to care what for they just accept. A very few ppl know I'm on disability b/c of BPD and not *just* depression.

It's new ppl I hope to meet b/c I'm lonely and have to get out of the house. Volunteer, whatever. Volunteering is like a job so I worry about answering these questions even more.
I also have met my daughter's friend's parents, but b/c of anxiety, fear I've never let myself really get to know them, socialize, etc... even though I'd really like to. I would tell them the truth (close enough to truth) if we really did click.
and yeah, I realize some of them have to know at least about the disability if not exactly for what (and I would hope not for BPD) through my daughter. I also agree that if someone keeps pushing the're not someone I'd want to be around and I *would* just clam up, walk away whatever is best response.

I like domestic engineer, too. I *sometimes* wish I had young children so I'd have the I'm a stay at home mom "defense"

I hate the stigma of this disease and the fact that when a lot of ppl find out you're on disbility they have a low opinion of you.

Thanks for all the answers and I hope its ok to answer them all in this one post. I wish Psych forums would send me notifications when I get a reply. Thanks again, Jen