Has anyone been out of work for a year or two because of mental illness?

Question

I hate it when people think that it's because I'm lazy. People without mental problems are so close-minded. They don't understand

Answer 1

I've been out of work for 3.5 years. I take medicine and regularly see my Psych., so I'm now able to leave the house to run errands and grocery shop. I used to have a big career and a high-paying job. I hide behind being a "stay at home Mom", which is a job in iteslf, but for me, its an excuse because I don't now how to get back into it or if I'm even ready.

I think it's easy for others to be judgemental about what they don't understand. Anybody who's been through this knows you're not lazy!!

Answer 2

Yep, I've been out of work for 5 years with mental health problems. I'm well at the moment and keeping myself ocupied doing voluntary stuff etc. I intend to go back to work but have been advised only part time. I used to teach and now it's like starting all over again.

When you've got/had a mental illness, what many people don't realise is how hard it can be to just doing everyday tasks like getting ready and doing bits around the house. Often your confidence is shattered and social things can be very difficult.

There's also the problem of actually getting work, I doubt many employers want someone with this kind of health record as they know you may well need more time off than the average person. (I know they're not allowed to descriminate, but they'll easily find a way round that if they want to).

You should never feel pressured into going back to work because that's what others are telling you. Mental illness, especially if it's been long term is different to other illnesses. You can appear to be ok and able to work on the outside but people just don't see what's going on inside your head.

I would say go back to work on your own terms, when YOU feel ready. Also it would have to be a gradual thing, so build up from doing a few hours a week or get into voluntary work. If you don't do it this way and if you don't feel in control of the situation, you may put your health at further risk.

I wish you all the best.

Answer 3

My sister has not worked for the past year due to anxiety. It is very frustrating as she really wants to work and needs to earn money. She takes Prozac and has cognitive therapy which really helps and she feels so much better than she did a year ago. Mental health is really still a taboo subject. Only her close friends and family know the real reason why she's not working. People who have never suffered from mental health problems think that they are so easy to overcome. They couldn't be more wrong. Don't be hard on yourself, it is not your fault that you are suffering.

Answer 4

I didn't go out of the house for a year once. Kept the blinds closed so I couldn't see how nice the day was. Laziness has NOTHING to do with it. And no, people don't really get it. It is horribly frustrating.

Answer 5

Your illness, must be related to social behaviors. I do understand, because my son is ill. He hasn't been able to work since high school, now he is 30. It's never a shame to be ill, but be sure and seek counseling, and get medical attention. Without treatment, the symptoms will only get worse. Possibly, someday, you will get the right medicines, and be able to face the world..Good luck!

Answer 6

yes, I know what you mean, my sister in law WAS like that , but she got meds. to help & now works part time.

try to get help fr. a Dr. , if you haven't & good luck