Quote From: domerdudeI got sick on military active duty, so the VA covers me with a disability pension. I applied for Social Security too, but I feel awful about taking it. Part of me is still in denial, like I couldn't possibly have an illness that is this disabling to me...you know? But at the same time, every time I venture out I experience some sort of setback telling me "Yes, yes you are disabled." It's frustrating.
I hear what you're saying. Isolation is the worst thing. You take for granted little things like going to the grocery store, going to church or going to the movies, but when you've been isolated for a long time those things become monumental obstacles. I am in therapy and I have gotten better about being out in public again. I am active in my NAMI chapter and I tried going back to school, but that was overwhelming. It's just a daily struggle.
I don't get as depressed about it as I used to. Part of it I credit to the Lamictal which has been a wonder drug for me. Part of it I credit to time and getting used to my situation. But without a doubt I do not enjoy the same quality of life I did before I was diagnosed with this illness. Not even close. And my previous message speaks to the things I have lost.
Try not to feel bad about going for SSI. I did for awhile and my therapist said why thats what its there for. Just because we are disabled due to our mental issues doesnt make us a bad person or thats not just who we are. we each have like and dislikes and things we like to do and not do. There are things we can still do despite thiese different disorders that we have.
I to take lamictal and it was the last drup that the doctor was going to give me before EcT. and that wouldnt of been fun, i am glad that its working for yoiu at this time. I think all of us i know me I was angry at the fact that i had this disorder and it took me awile to accept it. its not like a physical illness that you can see. But its in the brain and then others dont always understand,. But its good yoiur getting out to go to your meetings. that must help alittle. the isolation.
Hang in there. and i hope you continue to use the board.
