I stopped working 11 years ago when I simply couldn't get out of bed and couldn't call in. I spent 6 months in bed on medical leave and then I quit. I filed for disability and was accepted. It's not a lot - certainly not enough to live on without other assistance. But it's plain and simple:

We HAVE to take care of OURSELVES and if that means not working, then so be it. Some people can handle a job - some people can't. With all of the excuses I had to come up with as to why I did or didn't do a certain thing or come in on time day after day, I was done. That sealed the deal.

I wish you the best luck in doing what makes you feel good and keeps you stable!

You are not a loser. (((((Hugs))))))

After my first hospitalization in 1976 I was on SSD until 1981. It saved my life and I was a productive worker until I retired in 2001. I never had a career, I don't know how to manage that. Don't feel badly about going on SSD. The program is set up for people who need it. Be glad to have help and live the best life you can.

I can't work anymore so I am homeless. Been turned down twice for disability benefits. I will never work again, I am far too sick. I will be homeless for the rest of my life.

I'm sorry to hear that Heretic! If I didn't have my dad and boyfriend I would be homeless too! I already collected temporary disability and now I am waiting to get approved for permanent disability. My dad works really hard so I feel like a bum, but I try to help out around the house when I can. I don't know if I will ever be able to work again.

MissSunshyne no I am not in therapy, but I plan to ask to see a free therapist. I can't afford therapy unless it's free :(.

thanks everyone for the replies. My family keeps telling me I'm not a loser but it's hard not to feel that way. It feels good that I'm not alone though (hugs to all)

Ur not alone, or a loser.

I haven't worked in seven years and am now on disability. There are times when I feel like I might be able to work again, and then my anxiety takes over. I do hope to work again, but I think my only chance at it, is if I inform the future employer about my disability in any chance of getting sick again, they might be understanding. It seems every time I started working again, I'd go into full blown mania then plummet into a deep depression and I'm so scared of that happening again cuz I'm doing so well right now.

Thank God for my Country, where one can keep DLA even when working Full-Time.

But trying to find work here is a pain. Employers in Northern Ireland don't give a Rat's Ar$e about you unless you've experience in Payroll. (I'm gonna apply for Level 1 Payroll in four weeks time)

I went on disability less than 10 years ago. The difference in my mental health without the stress of working is a big deal. I felt guilty and judged for awhile for not working but I got over it. Sometimes things turn out for abused children who inherit mental illness and they get some rest they deserve.