Monthly Archives: June 2012

I often hear that work is a “choice” for people living with mental illness. This view needs to be actively challenged by stakeholders such as clinicians, families/caregivers, organizations, and even by recipients of psychiatric services. Living in poverty is not limited to finances but can negatively impact overall health, self-worth, and feelings of citizenship in valued social roles. As a person living with bipolar disorder I am angered about my own history on social security for 14 years that began at the age of 26. I am currently 50 years old and have been competitively working mostly full-time the past 10 years and living my life “system dependent free” by planning healthy risk taking. Viewing work as an expectation promotes lives of community inclusion (integration).  Employment is our most recognized cultural health tool of “hope and promise” toward wellness and recovery. Here are some common themes I hear:

1. Lacking access to public transportation
2. I had to get rid of my car since I’m now at a boarding home
3. There are no jobs
4. I need to work part-time to not interrupt “my” social security benefits
5. Professionals/family/caregivers/peers tell me that work will increase my symptoms
6. I am volunteering
7. I’m pressured not to miss day treatment program to look for a job
8. I need the benefits to pay for medication
9. I’m satisfied on social security
10. I don’t have the energy or physical stamina to work

We need to actively challenge these beliefs, values, and the people created system barriers of misinformation, and underused resources perpetuating this fear to support work. Creating social security exit plans and tailored social security benefits to meet specific needs of individuals. For example, living with my parents I did not need emotional stigmatizing social security check. Those monies could have been utilized elsewhere. I will explore these issues further in future posts. Your comments are welcomed!