When life comes to a screeching halt after experiencing a chronic illness or disability, it can be challenging to see a clear path forward and stay motivated on your return-to-work journey. Financial difficulties and health flare-ups while balancing day-to-day responsibilities can be demoralizing at best. There are many resources available that can help ease some of the roadblocks.
If you’re currently receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you qualify to be part of the Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work Program (TTW). It provides disability beneficiaries with a clear path and resources to transition back to work on their terms, at their pace, without risking the loss of benefits. With the support of Social Security-authorized Employment Networks (EN) or state Vocational Rehabilitation agencies (VR), individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses have access to a team of experts offering career counseling, job search assistance, resume-building assistance, interview preparation and more.
Shifting Focus, Reframing Setbacks
It’s sometimes easy to become completely wrapped up in our day-to-day lives. Making a conscious effort to shift focus from ourselves to what we want for ourselves—the endgame—can be cathartic, life-changing and the first step toward becoming the best version of you. What that looks like is different for each of us. Whether it translates to a new career, financial stability or simply a fresh environment, it starts with changing your mindset focus and prioritizing accordingly. Setting realistic goals and tackling tasks based on your specific needs and capabilities can help align with what you want to achieve. Breaking up tasks into manageable steps—such as updating one section of your resume or applying to a few well-researched jobs—can be a small win that leads to additional, consistent wins. Most importantly, celebrating small wins, reframing setbacks as learning opportunities and exploring flexible work options that align with your health needs—focusing on what you can control—is a small step that can lead to big opportunities.
Quiet the Noise, Build Your Toolbox
Daily challenges can be consuming, making it difficult to see the bigger picture. On low-energy days, focus on passive tasks like researching companies or setting up job alerts to streamline the process. Prioritize self-care by taking intentional breaks, staying hydrated and listening to career-related videos and podcasts for inspiration. Sometimes watching or listening to someone’s experience can add perspective to your own.
Experts at ENs and VRs can also be a valuable resource, as they’re equipped to offer a wealth of knowledge on overcoming barriers to employment. They’ve helped thousands return to work successfully and can provide clear paths that save time and energy. By quieting the noise and listening to yourself while leveraging available resources, you can stay motivated and find the right opportunity without compromising your well-being.
To get you started, here are some valuable resources:
Job Boards & Hiring Platforms for Flexible Jobs
These platforms connect job seekers with disabilities to employers who prioritize accessibility, and flexibility. Use them to find remote, part-time or full-time positions that accommodate your needs.
- AbilityJobs – The largest job board exclusively for professionals with disabilities, ensuring every employer posting here is committed to hiring differently abled people. It’s a great place to find companies that actively support workplace accessibility.
abilityjobs.com - FlexJobs – Offers curated job listings for remote, part-time and freelance roles, making it ideal for those who need a flexible work schedule due to health conditions.
flexjobs.com - Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP) – A federal initiative that connects college students and recent graduates with disabilities to internship and career opportunities in the government and private sectors.
wrp.gov - GettingHired – A job search platform designed for professionals with underrepresented talent, featuring employers and career development resources, such as resume support and interview tips.
gettinghired.com
Mental Health & Chronic Illness Support for Job Seekers
Job searching while managing health challenges can be stressful. These groups and guides provide emotional support, networking opportunities and wellness resources to help maintain motivation.
- Chronic Illness Career Support Group (Facebook & LinkedIn) – A peer support network where job seekers managing chronic illnesses can exchange job leads, encouragement and career advice.
- Job Seekers with Disabilities (LinkedIn Group) – A professional networking space that connects job seekers with recruiters and companies actively seeking diverse talent.
(30) National Disability Mentoring Coalition (NDMC) | Groups | LinkedIn - Mental Health America’s Job Assistance Guide – Offers resources for managing job search stress, burnout and mental health-related workplace accommodations, helping you prioritize well-being throughout your career journey.
mhanational.org/workplace
Finding your way back to the workforce while managing a chronic illness or disability can be both daunting and empowering. The Ticket to Work Program’s tailored support ensures you’re not walking this path alone, allowing you to balance career goals with ongoing health needs. As you connect with employment resources and peer networks, remember that every incremental effort—tweaking your résumé, attending a workshop or reaching out to a mentor—represents progress. Above all, building a sustainable foundation that respects your well-being and fosters professional growth is what will help you reach your goal. No matter how challenging the journey may seem at first, with perseverance, the right resources and support, each step will be a milestone in no time.