Hello all,

I've been lurking around the site for a while, and thought I would drop in. I was finally diagnosed with Bipolar earlier this year, it's been an interesting few years.

I've been unable to work for the last 5 years and am still unable to work in an environment other than my home. I tried returning to work (2 days/week) about 2 weeks ago which unfortunately did not go well at all. I like the work, I can't stand the noise and the sheer number of people. I do get the odd pick up job doing computer repair and maintenance and some other computery type work (I'm currently converting someone's mini disc video of their family's wedding to regular DVD). Though sometimes the pay is hit and miss. Alot of folks around here still prefer to be gouged by the box stores and their computer repair services.

The SO and I have had a standing agreement since I lost my funding, and it has worked pretty well. I keep the house and take care of the animals etc, and he goes out and brings in the bread. Sofar it's worked exceptionally well, he's always been extremely supportive especially when I've been at my worst, though I feel horrible having to ask for things I need.

I was on social assistance until last July when it was deemed that he made too much money for me to remain on assistance, but they did let me keep my health benefits. I was in the process of applying for disability, but somehow communications got mixed up I was told (and I can't remember by whom) that I would also be ineligible for disability as my SO made too much money. Though if I'm reading the charts right I am eligible for AISH as he makes just under the limit.

To be honest, I feel terrible. I feel like I'm letting him down, even though he assures me daily that he's happy as long as I take care of the house (his boss has told me that since we got together he's been super relaxed when he comes into work and does and excellent job). We are behind on a few of our bills, but we've never had anything cut off (with the exception of cellphones and that's only for a day or two at a time).