Mona, good for you for being money conscious. I think you are very capable of having a job. You just have to find a job that is right for you. This may take some trial and error, but you'll get there. Don't give up. One of the important things to remember about having a job with a mental illness is DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF. A lot of times, things that seem to be a big deal, often diminish through time if you just leave them be.

I am 40 years old and have not had a job since November. I tried to get on SSD and gave up, just like they were counting on me doing. I am looking for a job but I am married to a good man who can support us and does not make me feel bad. But I do feel bad. I want to contribute and be proud. But I don't know if I can. I should be on SSD as much if not more than anyone else.

If I was younger and single I would say fukit, for real
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mwx3RvDWvDM

@whodoesshethinksheis

Correct me if Im wrong, but isnt SSD for people who are totally disabled? By your own admission you are able to look for a job, so it stands to reason that you would be able to be gainfully employed. Perhaps the thing that you lack the most is self-confidence.

I understand what you said about wanting to contribute and be proud, but other taxpayers and I should not be expected to be the ones who are really contributing for you to feel that way.


As Im sure that you can tell, youve struck a nerve with me. Annually I pay enough in income tax alone to support a family of four, and it appears like that is what Im doing. I know that I promised to be nice. I said this as nicely as I could.

Correct me if I am wrong, but SSDI is something you pay into on your paycheck. I am on it, I paid my taxes for 30 years before I became disabled. I don't feel like I am living off anyone. I am taking advantage of a program that promised to take care of me in illness when I paid the taxes in. Guess you can tell you struck a nerve with me too. I truley hope you never need it. But, on the other hand, don't you expect to draw you SS when you reach whatever the raising age is then? That's is why you pay it in, are you just going to let them keep it?

I have not given up on SSD because I am able to find gainful employment without losing my mind. I gave up because I had to, for reasons of my own. I tried a couple of minimum wage jobs lately and had to quit because they were making me sick. I have to find a job and will probably finally manage to finish myself off when I do, but that's life right? I just can't wait for that anymore.

I've been out of work for a week and am soon to find out what life is like with no money. None. It will mean I lose my place to live. It's going to be rough ride.

@ZAZAS - Not everyones situation is the same. Get it?

When I was first diagnosed with depression and whatever else they claim, I was out and receiving disability from work for about 4 months and I was completely miserable about the amount of money I had to live off of. Friends and family will come through for you but there is nothing like your own money and not feeling like a charity case. But, it definitely does depend on the situation and things do change over time.