Money makes me sad, because I never have any. I am 26, have a BS degree, live at home, but just can't really get a career. So yeah, I'm qualified and have great skills, but so far this has not translated into anything more than tutoring for small potatoes. I live in CA, and am teamed up with Goodwill (the local job agency) to find a job. They haven't worked in a while. I receive SSI, but not enough. So my biggest questions would be: how to get more Social security income? Are there other ways to get income? How can I NOT work a 9-5 job but still live my life? I feel like a bum, sure, but I want to simplify my life to the point where I don't feel like fading into obscurity every day because I'm so broke all the time. OK, more details: I'm 26, male, symptoms for about 2-3 years (huge shock to me, detrimental). So I reach out to people out there like me for help, because I have no other form of support.

Hi Lonelycat, Do you know what? In my case I started working more and more motivated since I get the diagnostic. When I felt the first symptoms between 5 and 6 years ago, I felt depressed but just for few time, then I changed my mind and I said: "I want to be productive and demostrate others what I'm able to do!". I'm a computer engineer from Spain and I would like to encourage you to cherry up, I'm sure you can still do a lot of work and therefore improve your incomes. One more thing... don't lose hope! A lot of people, doctors, pharmacist... are studying about our disease or diseases related to our problem!

well that's certainly nice to hear. I often feel that way. These are not obstacles, they are challenges, right? I guess I'll continue my life, but get a better attitude. Thanks for the help, gotta go!

Keep going on with life & find someone worse off than you & me to do even something small for them. I am highly educated with a doctorate & try my best to work & push despite this disease. I love it when I step into groups where I can hide that I am sick. Of course, for those no longer walking this is more of a challenge. But due to a traumatic injury I spent 8 weeks in a wheelchair & am still fighting to remain strength lost then. I experienced the looks others gave me while in the chair, but my attitude & approach on most days made a difference bc I found others to help. It is a part of my personal belief in Jesus Christ that all things have a purpose & to look & listen for how you are to use it to help others. It is the best cure for depression short of meds & it takes my mind off (somewhat) my constant pain. Yes, I am broke too, but working on a plan to try to change that from my hospital bed. Do not give up, you are a treasure & still have value.