Dear Perpetuallysad,
I'm sorta zonked on meds right now but just wanted to offer a few words of encouragement to you about getting SSDI. It took me a lot of courage to go to a lawyer but I was desperate, and had been denied applying on my own. He was a wonderful man and was very direct as to what information he needed from me.
First, he told me to keep a detailed diary about how I felt each day, the ups the downs, everything. This he said would be submitted to the judge at the hearing. So if you don't keep a journal, this would be a good thing to start for submission to a lawyer if you decide to hire one.
I'd also like to answer your question about what type of work you might be able to do. I used to be in retail advertising in a very stressful environment, then became an RN. Not good, being bipolar.
I was so sick when I finally got my disability that I didn't work again for FIVE years. YMMV. I had to make some serious decisions about my life. I made things as simple as possible, such as not having anything to do anymore with people who triggered me, having a low stress environment and I began working at very simple jobs. The first was in housekeeping at a hospital. It was a real blow to my ego but I could handle it. Then I did a few other things but finally ended up 4-1/2 years ago doing what I am doing now parttime. It's in home health as an aide. I "sit" with clients a few hours a week, do light housework, sometimes baths, cooking simple meals. It was a real Godsend and last night I got something I've never received...a certificate for perfect attendance last year and $50! I was so proud. And work knows I'm bipolar!
So, yes, there are jobs out there that might be good for you and not stressful. I really wish you well.
Another thing I had to accept was the limitations of this disorder. Once I came to terms with that, I became a much less angry person, I am more at peace now that I don't have to put on that "fake grin" for the world, on the bad days I can just curl up, cry, take my meds, listen to others online, and yes, I pray. But the relief of not working 40 or more hours a week is an incredible blessing.
One more thing. After you've been on disability for 1 year, you get Medicare (if you are on SSDI) and part D pays for your meds, after a small copay (depends on the meds). The only drawback is unless you have the money, you have to see a pdoc that accepts Medicare.
Anyway, I'm coming out of a bad mixed state so I'm not exactly making much sense right now, but I felt your pain and just wanted to write and maybe encourage you not to give up. {{{hugs}}}