The costs of being sick is getting too much to bare

[Malen]

Along with a number MH issues I have a range of GH issues. On on numerous amounts of medication. I have regular GP visits and specialist appointments for severe chronic pain. I've had 4 procedures this year. Also have seen a Psychiatrist with review to see a Psychologist. 

Officially I work fulltime, but Im on reduced hours due to ulnar nerve entrapment, though just at the moment im on income protection. When Im working Im off a fair bit for doctors appointments. My pain medication can last anywhere from 2 weeks to 60 days in effectiveness.

Im off for specialists a bit either for appointments or procedures, now there will be more specialist with the addition of psychologist and psychiatrist. Procedures take up at least a day, sometimes a day or two for recovery. 

Of course there is time off for the actual illness, some days the pain was more than I can cope with and be at work as well. So you have time off, which ticks my parents off, they think I take too much time off while not understanding my pain level.

Im normally on reduced hours due to Ulnar Nerve Entrapment, Im currently on Income Protection. I had a spinal procedure which fixed one problem and highlighted another, which is more painful than the first. Dad asked when I was going back to work (there is more than just the spinal stuff). I dont know how I am going to handle work with the pain.

I dont earn heaps, Im on good money for the hours I do but not the hours to make good money. Somehow I have to afford life and all my medical costs. Medications etc. My parents seem to believe that I should just be able to afford this. They dont get the amount of money all this cost.

[AnotherRandomUser]

You sound like your pushing yourself very hard. I know your parents are saying that your not working hard enough but I dont think they understand how much pain you must be in. They are putting a lot of pressure on you to do more than your body is going to allow.

Nerve issues can be excruciating (I have nerve pain too) and I'm honestly amazed your even still holding down a full-time job with that, even with the time off. If it does turn out to be a permanent health problem and work gets too much, I think you should consider applying for the Disability Support Pension. You can still work so many hours even on the pension, but at least you wont be pushing yourself so much and can rest. Though I admit, financially, it may still be tough as its not a big payment.

If you think you don't think thats suitable however, perhaps you could sign up for a Health Care Card for potentially cheaper medications? I believe Centrelink still give them to low income earners who aren't on a payment. You could contact them to find out if your eligible.

But maybe thats not useful either, but I still want you to know, your kicking butt to still be working even now. I know most people are very ignorant when it comes to pain, a lot of people seem to have this silly idea you can just push through any pain with the "right attitude", and it's just not true. Not all pain can be ignored, if it could, painkillers wouldnt exist and we'd work til we died. But the truth is sometimes we cant cope, and you do have to stop and rest; it doesn't make you weak or lazy, it makes you human. No one, no matter what they claim, can simply work through severe pain constantly. Maybe you can push yourself for a short time, but eventually it will wear you down and your body will have to rest.

My point being, try not to put too much pressure on yourself (and try not to let anyone else either!) Your going through a lot right now, and if your body forces you to take a break, know its not your fault. Really you should be able to rest AND have a livable income, but until thats possible I just wish you the best in coping. Its hella tough.