I completely identify with the frustrations of having lupus and dealing with the physical and psychological effects of this illness. I recently and relunctently deided to apply for disability after a flare that caused me to be hospitilized three times in one year. In this economy its obvious we need to work and life goes on. I felt really defeated at first because we all know how difficult it is to get disability, Secondly i enjoy working and try to maintain a normal existence when i feel well enough to get up and do things on a daily basis, i take full advantage. I had to be honest with my self and realize that i needed to relieve the pressure of trying to drag myself to work and performing at less than 100%. The days i could not function would mean calling out. It would only be a matter of time before the sick days would be gone and i would loose my job. All these things became quite depressing to think of so i decided to think of alternatives. I have decided that i will apply for disability, Take complete care of my health. I even decided to write a book in my down time. The book is very therapeutic. The point is to focus only on something that brings you peace. I use this time as a much needed vacation and im feeling so much better without the pressure of having to worry about working through sickness. I plan to work part time once Disability is approved. Depression is not an option right now. I have to fight this disease . Try to stay focused on getting as healthy as possible and the rest will fall into placeView Thread