Are you able to volunteer anywhere?

I am on disability as well. I loved working, however, there is no question in my mind that I needed it and still do.

Have you thought of maybe working a part time job somewhere? You can work and make up to a certain $ amt. That way you would be easing back into the job market. Test the waters so to speak.

Was looking into volunteering at a christian ministries in town. Not sure if they'll want me. I seem to get pretty angry these days.

I'd like to work one day a week at the nursing home across town. I think that would keep me at the limit for disability. Problem is I get so freaking anxious over going, I simply don't go. I think I'm getting worse feeling stagnant like this though.

I used to be a teacher. I've been disabled for 5 years now. It took me a long, long time to re-work my identity. I realized my career is not who I am. It was something I did as an expression of my spiritual gift of teaching.

Choc is right...volunteer somewhere.

I felt the same way when I was put on disability. I think about possible jobs that I would fit into so I could work, again. For right now, I'm at home taking care of my family.

SS offers what they call "a ticket to work". Have you heard of it? Would this be something that might work for you? Your check is NOT affected and if you do accept it, they will not cut your disability off. I also worked full time for many many years and I miss it too. but I wanted to be well enuff to return to work, but only just a little bit...I know I probably will never go back full time. just a suggestion.... ;o)

Or, what about doing some service/volunteer work of some kind. I've been doing some dvocate work that has been fulfilling....going and sharing my story to those who are in recovery centers. It's on my own time and it's very rewarding to both myself and to others. they can see all is not lost and can be very appreciative for you taking your time to care.

I hope you feel like you've got a place here. Since you're a nurse you'll understand this more: People who aren't Bipolar can't understand why we can't just gather ourselves up and just get back to life. If it were so easy. It's like describing a migraine headache to someone who's never had one. They don't know how bad you feel. That's the beauty of groups like these. You don't have to feel all alone. We know just how you feel. We won't make you feel like you've got a horn growing out of your head because you're no different than us. Thank you for your comment. My Exhusband sat and let me be sick for a year until my sister steped in and took over my care.

Thank you all so very much for your replies....they really helped me out. I'm checking into the ticket to work and may try to pick up a few days at our local nursing home. Sometimes I just can''t help feeling so out of place and that the people around me really do no understand what being bipolar is. My mom has been reading about it, which makes me feel great. And I talk to my 2 boys about it as well. You guys made me feel much better after reading all your replies!!

I am trying to get disability now for bipolar and i hate that i cant work. I am also a nurse and i loved my job when i could handle it. I thinkyour family is just trying to help, mine on the other hand tell me to suck it up and work through it. It is hard but one day maybe you cn work again!