A lot has happened since I was here last. In the spring I entered some pretty intense outpatient treatment. I was advised that I needed to focus on myself and my recovery, almost to the exclusion of everything else. It was suggested that I stay off the forums for a while, because my new therapist felt I was spending too much time expending my energy on this illness. I took their advice, and went into some kind of self-imposed hibernation.
I spent a number of months receiving a huge amount of psychotherapy. I needed to make some improvements in my coping skills, to the point I was diagnosed with a personality disorder. Meds were stabilized, and I’m happy to report that my psychiatrist only requires me to come in every 6 months - much better than the every month schedule I had been maintaining for a number of years.
I have taken up part-time employment. I’ve been working for almost 3 months now. It’s been a little rocky, but I’ve made a good name for myself at work, and have developed a budding relationship with my supervisor and the company owner. I do intermediate-level office work…basically it’s an administrative job. As a child, my father focused heavily on developing office and computer skills, because he thought that’s where the future would be brightest for me. That remains to be seen, but I have succeeded thus far at work.
Right now the plan is to focus on developing some longevity at work. My wife and I are beginning to look at buying a house in the next 18 months. As things stand, I continue to receive SSDI, and work part-time as I said. If I can develop a little bit of continual success at work, then we can look at suspending or stopping SSDI and for me to return to work full-time. A house of our own would be a welcome development considering what the last 7 or 8 years has been all about.
Sorry for just dropping out of sight and causing anyone any worry or concern, but it was made plain to me that recovery needed to be my sole focus.
I look forward to talking and interacting with the community again. Good to see you, and thanks for reading.
Glad you’re doing so well. I can understand dropping things to take care of your personal health. I had to leave a job, before I got myself fired because I was relapsing and well this isn’t about me sorry. But glad to hear you’re doing better!
Yep, the fellow who I share a link with to New Rochelle! Still a dirty UCONN fan? The big news (and I mean BIG news) around here is the Cubs. I’m rather indifferent, but that’s still pretty remarkable. Nothing since 1908…not many people still walking around who remember 1908.
Yes. I’m living out in Olympia Washington now going to school. So I’m rooting for the Washington Huskies in football but still loyal to uconn til the end lol
Wow it sounds like things have really taken a big step in the right direction for you while you’ve been gone! Employment, thinking about going full time and buying a house are huge achievements.
Hey there old friend! I’ve been playing a bit of catch-up, and it sounds like things have taken a turn for the positive for you and your better half lately, @jukebox. It’s about time a little bit of luck turned your way. How’s the weight loss going for you? I’ve lost almost 50 pounds in the time I’ve been gone - forgot to write about that. Look forward to catching up with you and so many others. I’ve been poking around - lots of new faces. And maybe it’s just me, but a lot of these avatars look the same? Glad to see you’re still here, compadre!
@anon40540444 I’ve lost 42 pounds. I still weigh 245. I was getting up there though so I am grateful for what I’ve lost. Yes, fortune has turned for the better with us lately. Namely Angela finding work and me getting a new car. really opened the doors for us. I have missed you and I look forward to seeing more from you on here. Thank you for the kind words.
Glad you are doing well and glad to meet you! I too am hoping to buy a house soon with my wife. It is good to hear of someone else managing a relationship while managing sz. I am new to the dx so I enjoy reading other people’s insights.
---- that could be you an alien
The big news (and I mean BIG news) around here is the Cubs. I’m rather indifferent, but that’s still pretty remarkable. Nothing since 1908…not many people still walking around who remember 1908.
but still loyal to uconn til the end lol