u/No-Market-4288

On the outside I look like someone with a lot going for them. I have a bachelor's, computer certs and have a lot of hobbies. Earlier this year my computer job was downsized. I have always worked and never been on disability. I am looking for another IT job but it's difficult right now.

I struggle with coming to grips with the fact over ten years ago I struggled with mental health issues. Looking back I feel the situation I was in, dictated a lot of my diagnosis. My parents were going through a separation. They were emotionally unavailable. I took acid and smoked pot.

I have been on abilify and an antidepressant for years. I don't know how to reconcile my prior diagnosis with where I'm at now. I suppose I'm fortunate to not necessarily need to.

I guess now in my 30s, I'm trying to figure out my life if that makes sense. I'm not looking for sympathy or anything. More like figuring out is there a way I can maybe give back and connect with the community in my free time. NAMI maybe?

So, I was diagnosed with schizoaffective in the past. I was taking 10mg of abilify for over 10 years. I recently went to 7.5mg with doctor's supervision. I noticed my brain felt more elastic but less durable against stress if that makes sense since lowering the dosage.

I haven't had any symptoms of the condition over 10 years. I do feel like I'm stressed a bit. (Currently looking for a job and on unemployment)

I do think I need to be medicated. I don't think at this point I can handle large amounts of stress after being on abilify so long. The stress hasn't impacted me on a personal level too much, apart from having a headache the other day.

Does anyone else who is stable feel like they couldn't get off an antipsychotic even if they wanted to after taking it long term? I know stress can be debilitating to anyone. I wonder how well I could function in a mostly stress free environment with a low dosage of abilify.