Need some good advice

[Shakspr]

A few years back I was diagnosed with bipolar II. I was being treated and was on several different meds. Last July my wife and I separated and later divorced in Dec. I also lost my job during this time. I am now without income or insurance. I am living in a very small one room apartment that used to serve as college dorm. I have not been on meds since about November and I am sinking into a very deep depression. I started drinking again and it has gotten out of hand. I need help but don't know what to do or where to turn. I was wondering how difficult it would be to get short term disability while seeking the treatment I need. Would really appreciate some feedback and advice.

[looloo141]

Hello, I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling so low.. what was the reason for stopping the meds in November? Was it a financial problem or did you just stop?
it is no wonder you are sinking to be honest, don't beat yourself up, I am bipolar and I have been through divorce, it is probably the most stressful thing I have been through, apart from illness of my kids. You go through different stages of grief, and it triggered my problems off too. I also turned to alcohol, mainly to help me sleep.

What about your family? do you have much support? You need to ask for help as soon as possible, sometimes just someone coming to see you for a cuppa coffee or to make you a meal can help with the lonliness and repetitive thoughts.
Sometimes people think we are coping, so you need to tell someone how you really feel, I know that men can find this hard but you need people around you, don't isolate yourself.

I got through it thanks to family giving me practical support, and friends giving me emotional support, they all helped me realise that there is a life out there with my name on it!
My ex husband left me, for another woman and I felt desperately low.
I think you know that you need some meds right now, they will help you through this.
I'm sorry I can't offer you any financial advice, I live in the Uk.
We're a very supportive group on here, there's always someone around that you can talk to, so please keep posting, we are here for you.
hugs

[ILADVOCATE]

   Yes that's complex because to be eligible for SSI or SSDI you need to be seeing a psychiatrist and in treatment. However you might be eligible for Medicaid and that could provide mental health coverage. Short term disability to my knowledge can be granted through an employer during a period of time when a person is unable to work but only if they are still employed. Your local independent living center should have some information on benefits eligibility criteria and could assist with application. There is one in every county of every state. Also in addition to seeing a psychiatrist dual recovery groups can be helpful.