I've been on disability since 2015, and it was the best thing I could have done for myself. That's why I recommend applying for it right away---it takes a long time to get all the required paperwork in, and for Social Security to make a decision. You have to be out of work for at least six months to be eligible. I also wouldn't advise you to work part-time, as it will almost certainly cause you to be denied disability. If you find a job that you can handle, you can just tell SS you're dropping your case and that will be the end of it. There are no limits to the number of times you can apply, so if you're working and you find that you've made a mistake you can always try again.

Be aware that most people are denied the first time they apply. I got a disability attorney right away when I applied and I was approved within six months. Most of them take cases on a contingency basis, meaning they don't get paid until you win, and then their money comes out of your first check so you don't even have to think about it. You'll get pay dating back to when you were first eligible, which results in a nice big check. My first one was over $8,000...a nice chunk of change that enabled me to pay off some debts and enjoy a Caribbean cruise with my husband and sons.

Best of luck to you in whatever you decide to do.