Well it certainly could be either or both. With work the last 4-5 has been unfortunate through 10 years' of BP. I lost my 18-yr business, found two stressful good paying jobs (one with travel-disaster!), lost that and got busted down at half pay in a clerical job, finally got "laid off', went without a job before chucking it in and qualifying for disability. I also still struggle with self-esteen issues not to mention financial ones.

The silver lining is what another post mentioned finding something that suits. Changing to jobs the meet you where you are happens throughout people's lives and whether they are bipolar or not, as do people have many jobs in their life plain and simple. I am now achieving some fulfillment with volunteer work and to fight the boredom and money factors, I realize I CAN handle a part-time and would enjoy the camaraderie.

I hope you find your way with or without formal work. Many things ARE possible. Talk to others in similar circumstances for more ideas.