Hi,
I'm 45 years old. I was diagnosed with BP at 33 and fibromyalgia at 37. Managing BP is now almost a second nature since I know what to expect and I've found a few ways to avoid major episodes. As for fibro, a new medication seems to be working well since October 2013. I am on disability since 2011. I would love to step back into the work market, because my life is really boring and I feel like it has no purpose. I know that stress flares up the pain whenever it's present. Another issue is air-conditioning. And I don't know if I would tolerate any of the abuse I have endured during my working years. I have a feeling that my patience would not be there anymore if someone would bully me. I am willing to try to get respected in a fashionable manner, but what if... I've been in many jobs where people would take advantage of me. I was really too lenient with others abusing behaviour. In the past, I did not know how to get people to respect my space. That has always been an issue. I've lost all my confidence and I just don't know anymore what I could be good at doing. I feel like my habilities are all gone, like if my brain can't function as efficiently as before. Another serious concern is that if I leave that disability status for a job, I can't go back if it doesn't work. The work market is highly competitve and most jobs mention that the candidate must be able to cope with an environment with stress. Where can I fit? How to explain that I have been away from the job market for a few years? I just don't know anymore.