Do you work full time part time or not at all?

I've collected SSDI for several years now. Before that, for four years I was on and off full and sometimes part-time private disability through my last job. During that four year period, I clocked over two years either inpatient or in PHPs or IOPs (partial/intensive outpatient programs). Some of the time I worked during that period (mostly part-time and for a bit full), I either struggled, greatly, or gradually became manic to the point of "mental explosion" -- full tilt! When that happened, I had achieved a project that ultimately saved the company big bucks, but at the cost of my brain. I was on the verge of a huge promotion that never happened because of the final straw -- just short of 10 years at that particular company.

During these years on SSDI, I either functioned very poorly (early years) or made some progress towards possible future work again. But when I dipped my toes into more responsibilities, I soon after faultered, especially when adding too many too soon. Usually taking multiple steps backwards, as a result. However, in recent years, I have very gradually made some progress, but the progress mostly equals what a good housewife (sans children) was known to do, plus some extras. I have here and there done some bit of writing (non-paid) and teeny bit of research and editing for a book my husband worked on, but that's it. The whole preparations for our move to Europe, settling in, and my bit of contribution for our upcoming home is the limit to my capabilities, while still maintaining reasonable stability. And I'm proud of these accomplishments! Fact is, what my ambitions were at age 20 and 30, do not apply to the me of 50+. I won't call the me now as lesser, though. What I've survived and achieved these past 18 years is A LOT! A huge job and achievement in and of itself. One could liken my journey of recovery to "learning to walk again". Walking, but certainly not planning or able to do any hundred yard dash...perhaps ever again. But I am "walking", even if slowly.

This is just my journey. We are not all the same here.

It is definitely a journey. and you are right no one has walked in our shoes.
(((((HUGS))))))
bizi

I work full-time and fortunately with an owner that is sympathetic and flexible. For example, I sent him a text Monday morning that stated I had an episode over the weekend and needed to take a mental health day. No questions asked, no nagging emails waiting for me on Tuesday. It's a blessing, for sure.

I am not working right now because I'm in rehab. I have an arrest record now, so I don't think I can get a job.

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I hope you manage to sort something out once rehab finishes x

Hey there! Thanks for your support. I am not having any luck solidifying anything. This is one of the hardest things I've ever had to face.

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That’s tough. Do you have a psychiatrist managing your meds?

I do. I'm pretty good mentally, just a little defeated at my situation. Trying to find the brighter side of things, and let my Higher Power do the rest.

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Surely not all employment requires police reference checks I would hope. Glad you’re good mentally! It’s a step in the right direction

You can still work. Just not all jobs.

I work for n retail and there was no checks on my police record. Working with children or vulnerable adults requires checks.

Of course gaps in employment would have to be explained but there’s ways of doing that.

I just wanted to say I ended up getting a job that I've managed to keep for more than a year. And I got a huge raise!

Congrats hun that’s soooo cool!

Full time

I was working full time up until I got laid off. Now I am looking for a new job.

For years I thought, I would never work. What changed that for me was learning a trade and starting part time. Eventually I went full time.

Work is addicting. I like making money. It allows me to eat well, which was difficult when I was on disability. I can do more things such as attend concerts, enjoy cappuccinos, and buy clothing. It also helps maintain my mental health.

Here is a tip:

If you want to return to work and succeed choose a job that suits your personality and interests.

Working in retail or fast food is not mandatory. I never worked in those industries and was able to find work without any problems.