Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 12/31/2009

Question
Alright, well I'm 22 and filing for disability.  I don't know whether I can or can't hold a job yet.  My dad says he thinks that I can make a middle class life for myself if I "apply myself".  But I've mostly always thought otherwise which is why we are applying for disability.  I also have tourette's syndrome, aspergers syndrome (light autism), obsessive compulsive and adhd.  I've been committed to the psych ward 4 times, once while on vacation.  I have been diagnosed with 2 different bipolars (different psychiatrists).  one said I was bipolar severe with psychotic features and the other said Bipolar 1 but didn't mention anything else.  My IQ is in the normal range and my Aunt has said I'm "smart but not the hardest worker in the world" which I agree with.  It's not that I'm lazy so much as that I'm not sure I know how to work.  Maybe I do and am only selling myself short but I dont know.  I've had 4 jobs, the longest of which lasted 2 months the shortest being 8.5 days.   I was a former special ed. student but graduated High School in 4 years and dropped out of college.  Really though, based on most other people how bad is my bipolar?  How difficult would it be to hold a job?  Any other side comments would be helpful too so long as they aren't ill-willed but since you have it too I don't expect that.  

Answer
Hello Patrick:

The first thing that stands out to me is your low self esteem--you don't believe in yourself.  It is important to know you are a capable person who can contribute a great deal to the world.

I can't be the judge about your ability to work simply because I don't have access to your medical records or all of your history.  However, there are some questions that you can ask that will help make it clearer.

Are your symptoms stabilized with medication?  How often do you find yourself unable to go through a day without a major problem?  

My suggestion would be to look in your local phone book the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR).  Set up and appointment and discuss your situation with them.  It may be all you really need is training on how to find a job, how to handle work situations and maybe actual skill training.  Often individuals with Asperger's simply do not know how to do what the rest of the world takes for granted--proper social interaction being high on that list.  The people at OVR can test you and review all your past records and help you make the decision as to whether you can hold a job--and help you gain the necessary skills to do so.

I think maybe your dad and aunt are, even if they are going about it incorrectly, telling you they believe in your ability.  It is now time for you to start believing in you.

                                   Joyce A. Anthony