It’s been a year since I’ve been able to work. I’ve accepted three jobs since February and have been too anxious to even start. I had a job that I loved for 9 years, but I left last year due to disagreements with the new company owners and my deteriorating mental health. I am talented at what I do for work, I know how much I’m capable of. But no matter how successful I’ve been, there are always periods of time when I can’t work and have to take a leave of absence. Even if I’m doing everything I can to maintain my health, it doesn’t matter; major depressive episodes several times a year, constant social anxiety, and occasional manic episodes ruin everything.

I am rarely able to afford basic necessities now, let alone monthly bills. I make what I can driving for Instacart, I force myself to do it most of the time. Sometimes I can’t. Regardless, the earnings are unpredictable and hover around minimum wage overall.

My question is for anyone who’s applied for SSI disability, how many times your application has been rejected, and how long did it take for any of you to get approved. Do you have any advice you can offer?