How to deal with a life event with changes in routines?

[Hazelcat]

I moved to get a better job but I was not able to keep it. Now I have to live with my brother and his 8 years old daughter. It's really difficult. Every thing changed and I struggle to find the time to take care of myself, set a small business as a web writer and just have some time to myself. It may take some time to have a regular income as I'm just starting. I'm so stressed that I can't sleep well and always fight with my brother. I do need his help but it comes with so many strings attached. How would you deal with that? Thanks.

Hi Rona and welcome. Glad you were able to move in with your brother but I understand a change like that can be stressful and I'm sorry to hear that you two are arguing. I guess any suggestions would depend on what you're arguing about. Is it finances? I agree with Mocha that it might be best to apply for some income support, even if you have some earnings. Most EI/disability/welfare programs will allow you to earn some income and still get benefits. You just need to report it so they can adjust your benefit amount if needed.

Maybe you could sit down with your brother at a time when neither of you is upset, and work out some ground rules. Living with someone isn't easy, and I hope his "strings" attached are reasonable.

My heart goes out to you about the not sleeping. I have so much trouble sleeping when I'm stressed out! Maybe discuss it with your doctor or therapist - there are also many stress reduction techniques out there (articles, YouTube videos etc). I find Sleepytime herbal tea helpful.

I hope you can get some relief. Hugs to you.

[Mocha231]

Rona I want to wish you a warm welcome to forum. I’m so happy that you could join us. Myself and the other admins are always happy to help.

mocha231

[Mocha231]

Hi Rona,

I was just wondering if you are currently receiving ODSP or OW? If you are not it may be worth applying to ow first since it’s faster and then proceed to apply for ODSP. Perhaps you can find some time to work on searching for employment so that you find a new job. Just remember that when one door closes another opens or the saying things happen for a reason. I was dismissed from a job that I didn’t really care for and ended up finding something I really love. You may need to sit down and explain to your brother that you are stressed and appreciate his help but that you also need some space and time for yourself. I’m hoping that after you have a conversation with your brother about how you are feeling that he will give you some breathing room. Starting a business can be quite time consuming so perhaps you can set a small amount of time aside each day to focus on it. I also find using a planner that contains time slots can be very helpful for time management. This is exactly what I do. I also keep track of things that I need to do with an online calendar. Also try to prioritize what the most important things are and your self care should definitely be a priority.

mocha231

[Rona]

I moved to get a better job but I was not able to keep it. Now I have to live with my brother and his 8 years old daughter. It's really difficult. Every thing changed and I struggle to find the time to take care of myself, set a small business as a web writer and just have some time to myself. It may take some time to have a regular income as I'm just starting. I'm so stressed that I can't sleep well and always fight with my brother. I do need his help but it comes with so many strings attached. How would you deal with that? Thanks.