[Severa]

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).

[Clinte89]

Well welcome first off. And it sounds like you've had a bit of a rough go of it but mostly because your so hard on yourself. Don't beat yourself up you tried going to work and it didn't work out at least you showed an effort. So keep your head up things will work out.

[faerie_moon_x]

I think you're being too hard on yourself. Taking care of the household is a big job and I don't think enough people give credit for it. There was a time when it was completely normal for one person to stay home to take care of the household, and one would work. I think our society is nuts to demand that everyone be bringing in dollars to be considered of value. Money has become the evil demon that rules us all, it's completely insane.

I think every family is different and what works for your family is what is correct. If you can keep up with the house, that's excellent and it doesn't sound like he has an issue with that at all. Keeping your home is valuable and good. Don't belittle yourself, you're doing good.

[hopeeternal]

Originally Posted by Severa

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).

I'm sorry that you are having a rough time. I, too, cannot work (I did qualify for disability, and have been out of work for about 4 years now), and know how you feel. You are making important contributions to your household, and if your SO is good with that, I'd not question it.

I also know about the financial issues that come with all of this, and although we've not missed any bills, we are always so close. It's just scary.

Anyhow, I know I'm not offering any advice, just empathy. Keep doing what you're doing, take care of your condition, and be a good mate. There's not much more that you can do right now.

hello...

[twiddle]

Hi. I'm also unable to work because of my bipolar. I stay home and take care of the house and animals, do the cooking, etc... I qualified for disability and for SNAP so that helps. I also live with family though I do pay rent, for the cable/internet and buy all the food.

I agree if your SO is fine with the situation then don't beat yourself up over it. Caring for a house and animals and everything else I'm sure you do is plenty of work. You are doing your share.

Stop by the boards more often. I just started up and everyone is great. Very supportive and pretty darn knowledgeable too.

[BlueInanna]

hi and welcome