I have always wanted to be educated. But I became educated in another fashion. I had to make a foundation before I could build. I had to start somewhere, so I started with High School Night School. My mother had agreed to babysit, but only if I was doing something productive. So, I took sign-language classes. Then I found out about ROP in San Diego. It was free trade-school. It sounded great, so I signed up for Cosmetology classes. It took a year on the waiting list, but I finally made it, and yes, my mother agreed to babysit again for this endeavor. It took a year and a half, but I made it. I am still a cosmetologist. I kept my license. But then I came down with carpal-tunnel.
I flitted from one job to another, never staying very long. When my employers found out I was disabled, I was always asked to resign. I did not know my rights. So, I would resign, thinking that it was better than being fired. Then, I found out about apprenticeships and applied to become a trolley mechanic. They put me through classes at the local community college and I got a certificate. I am also an Electro-mechanic Journeyman-Lineman. It took five years, but even they pushed me out when finding out I have a disability. I was served with psych eval papers and was so insulted that I just said, that's it, I quit. After five good years of service.
So, back on Social Security I went. I promised my family that I would stay on it this time. Well, I guess I was wrong. I found my calling. My calling as a Peer Support Counselor. I was still in school when I got the job. My current employer has always worked with me to get to the next level. So now, I not only have an associate's degree but now I also have a Bachelor's degree with a minor. But I didn't stop there. Now, I am in master's classes. To get a certificate. That always seems to be the starting point for me.
So, where I am at now, I am off of Social Security. I have a full-time job and I have personal transportation to get to and from work. I see a psychiatrist regularly. I take medicine regularly. And I am still in school, still learning to grow where I am planted. Thank you for your continued support of my blog. Here, I try to do my part to stop the stigma. Stigma is the tipping point for most of the mentally ill. It hurts.
Vocabulary ABC's in Mental Health Circles
Social Security PASS Program Info PASS Application