My dad was a Vietnam vet. When he was put on disability (around your age with PTSD and back problems) he took it as a sign to relax a bit. Mum and dad sold the house etc brought a caravan. Traveled around Australia for many many years. Maybe seeing America is the way to go for you or something .

My dad is a Vietnam Vet. He does not have a lot of physical disabilities but his business did fail due to unforseen circumstances. He just created a new business and it doesn't require that much exertion so if you miss working and you still want to work...you could find something that does not require so much physical dependence and maybe you can do it from home?

I'm in a wheelchair and on SSI, I only have volunteer jobs. I do a few from home. We will always have our ups and down days, but that's part of our depression. Hang in there!

Hi. I think it's important to try to get some type of routine..like exercise in the a.m..get dressed..paper...etc. If your depression m body allows, you can probably keep just as busy fixing stuff n remodelling around the house. Hope that your medicine allows u to feel as well as possible.

Unfortunately I don't have any suggestions, but I can empathize. I also have chronic, disabling pain and depression. It's been really challenging to find purpose and meaning, and to adjust to a new identity, when we're not working. I hope you find some answers.

Sounds like my husband. He is totally disabled due to a work accident. He too worked all his life and feels lousy about not working now. Hugs and hang in there.

I know how you feel. I am on disability also and some days I feel like I don't contribute to the world at all. Especially when I first stopped working. It was horrible, it was like I lost myself by not working. True enough, I hated that particular job but was used to working two jobs. Be patient, you will find your self again.

I've been unable to work for over 20 years. And I still get bored! But I try hard to keep busy. It's not always easy due to chronic pain and the depression. But I believe that keeping busy is very important.

I volunteer a few hours a week here and there. I make sure the people know that I will have times when I can't volunteer due to the pain. They've all been understanding (because I volunteer...doesn't cost them money! LOL) Getting out and about has helped me a lot as far as the depression goes.

I hope you can find something to keep your mind occupied.

Keep reminding yourself of all you have accomplished in your life. You raised a family and supported them, you were in the Navy serving your country, you took care of your wife when she had cancer (I looked at your profile) ... man, that's a LOT! You have contributed much more to the world than many, many other people.

I am on disability as well, and my ego has really taken a hit because of it. I think finding some kind of volunteer work can help you re-craft your identity and give you purpose. You could be a mentor (even online) to young people, for example.

I also agree with Elena that it's important to get into a good daily routine -- exercise, maybe learning something new, errands, etc.

{{{hugs}}}