I had a hard time too when my doctors suggested I apply, not just shocked but then I became morose in fact as if dealing with my diagnoses and financial pressures weren't enough. It seemed like giving in at first. Then someone said to use it as a tool to help get to where you want to be. It will take the pressure off us to get the help we need, and to do the things we need to so as to get to a better place. If we can possibly work again, whether it be full time or part time, then that can be a goal but at least we have some relief so as we can work on that or whatever else we want to do.

In my case, I was able to benefit from it coming from a very dark place for years but being able to focus on meds and therapy to get leveled out. Eventuially I went back to volunteering, then to school part-time, over time to school full-time, then back to work part-time and further down the road to full-time. I have accommodations at work for my disability which I could not have gotten before. I recently had a set back after 2 years of working FT and the system was in place to help. I cannot tell you how much of a relief this was so I could focus on what I needed to get my MH and health back.

This is what the program(s) are there for, to help us when we need it. Use it. It could be indefinitely, long term, or short term, but no matter, it is there as we need it so we can focus on what matters to best to take care of ourselves.

Wishing you well and for approval in your application and benefits, if this is what you decide to do.