u/catsigrump

I want to start a discussion around employment for the disabled.

I am considered disabled, have injuries and illnesses, and am unemployed.

Finding work has been impossible and it's got my brain in a spin.

The main reason I'm considered 'unemployable' is because I cannot commit myself to set hours. My conditions render me unreliable. I am also considered a 'work cover risk'.

For example, some days I can barely move, other days I have severe migraines and can't even get out of bed or use my phone. 

Then I have days I feel could put in a few hours of work.

Having been a small business owner I understand the need for reliable employees and also the consequences of having an employee end up on work cover.

I just think there has to be a way to give people with disabilities, injuries and illnesses the chance to work and earn an income. 

Obviously I don't have the answers. But maybe, just maybe, someone out there has some ideas?

Is anyone having trouble getting HRT because of their complex pain conditions?

My Dr is being very difficult to get HRT treatment from. Dr now says I'm too complex because of my pain, and need to be referred elsewhere.

I don't have the money to pay for another clinic (mine is bulk billed).

And to be honest, I will struggle affording the HRT depending on costs.

But I need help. I feel like I'm dying of a terrible condition that can easily be treated but it's just not happening! Sorry, but dramatic.

I've been 'disabled' for about 7 years now, not working since.

For some context, I always had at least one job, and never relied on anyone but myself for anything.

Even when I was working (and my illnesses were present, just not as debilitating), I was always the one to look after the household.

Absolutely everything is my job, gardening, house maintenance, finances, cleaning, shopping etc.

My husband works full time.

On the weekends he goes out and does what he wants and when he's home he sits around doing nothing.

I've never minded much, because I'm a bit of a control freak and like things done my way.

These days though I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get myself motivated to do anything, especially on a weekend.

I'm currently sitting here knowing there's heaps of housework to do but in my mind I'm like " why should I be doing everything while he gets to play?"

I wish I could do something I enjoy but I'm too unwell.

I feel selfish because I don't work and he does.

But I'm friggin disabled, I'm in so much pain and have zero energy.

Who can relate?

And how does it work in your household?

I have a major confidence problem and am struggling to find my self worth.

I was brought up believing that I will never amount to anything.

Even as an adult I've heard 'what makes you think you deserve better '.

I've always been a good hearted person, I'm extremely empathetic, compassionate and kind.

But I have come to realise that I've made myself a door mat. People walk all over me.

Nobody respects me.

I seem to be a magnet for negativity.

It's become even worse since I've been unemployed and disabled.

I feel like I bring nothing to the table and I'm completely worthless.

I have to rely on someone else just to stay alive.

I'm desperately trying to come up with a solution so I can earn an income and at least contribute. I think it will help my confidence greatly, but it's a major challenge that I've not been successful with to date, and it's been years.

Question for you all, how did you find your self worth and confidence?