My DID is getting in the way

Re: Justdontkow & Hunny's posts... It's both a good idea and a good warning...all rolled into one. Your local workforce center is a place to start - depending on your community. However, as mentioned, they do not deal exclusively with folks with disabilities - so you may run up against a wall. Instead, you may want to try to find your local "vocational rehabilitation" organization. If you google "vocational rehabilitation" and the state you live in (Florida, I think. I gave the link.) you will find what you're looking for.

I went to my local vocational rehab back when I was still trying to work - post breakdown. First step is an orientation, then you're called for a meeting with a "counselor." That person opens a file on you and sees if you qualify for assistance. I quit after the orientation...so I'm not sure what else happens. Unfortunately, with the economy the way it was/is, the folks at vocational rehab weren't exactly very encouraging about us finding work...part of the reason I didn't go back (but that was two years ago). The other negative was at the time there was a huge backlog, but maybe that's been rectified some by now.

Another option, since you mentioned being bored, but when you look for work you become anxious, is to volunteer. There are tons and tons of volunteering opportunities in all sorts of fields. Years ago, I used to volunteer for an animal rescue group. You can volunteer at hospitals, schools, charities like Habitat for Humanity or Meals on Wheels. Some organizations, like the Red Cross, sometimes look for receptionist volunteers.

As a volunteer, your work is more appreciated than expected so there's less pressure in certain regards. For me, right now, dealing with people - at all - is too much pressure. But in the future, I think it would be a good way to test the waters. See what I can handle. There's a Web site called VolunteerMatch you might want to check out. I know this doesn't help bring in money, but it's a start back toward work perhaps.

I was feeling really badly for a long time (and still do at times) about not working, but I'm going through so much pain right now and confusion and fear that it's just not feasible. I'm on the brink of being overwhelmed just waking up each morning...doesn't take much to push me over the edge. So, for now, I try not to think about not working or working. Financially this sucks! but it's what is safest for me.

Thanks for the clarification Hunny.

Justdontknow,

The orientation may be good, the idea or coming alongside is good for Rhap, they even get you to sign so they can access all your medical records which may or may not be good, so they can help you better (by the way they should tell you this up-front). But, if there are just a bunch of people employed there who don't give a rip (I've seen some doozies in the field and the odd authentic ones) then you will do better to find something yourself or go that volunteer route.

All the best Rhap.