Have you ever had to appeal state disability insurance in CA?

Should I try to get CA state disability insurance if I think I'm about to get fired?

• I recently had a nervous breakdown related to anxiety and substance abuse. I am finally getting help for this, and I have been on unpaid leave from work for one week. I emailed (so it would be in writing) and called my boss to say I was getting substance abuse treatment. I was told that they cannot legally fire me for 90 days if I say this. I also am 90% sure that they were planning to fire me before this happened. I don't want to be dishonest, but should I try to get disability money for as long as possible? I want to find a new job ASAP but need money to live in the meantime. I'm seeing a general practice doctor, psychiatrist, therapist, and a substance abuse counselor and am on anti-anxiety medications.

• Answer:

  I really hope you can get things worked out and find ways to be productive. I feel for you. I have close family members in similar situations and I KNOW it can be crippling. I'm sorry you are struggling this way.  It is not your employers fault that your life is a mess. I know it's harsh. But that is the honest truth. If you can demonstrate how they are responsible for these problems, then sure, force their hand. I feel I am about to be flamed. I have compassion for people and their problems, and I have compassion for employers and their struggles, too. There may be work they desperately need someone to do. It just isn't their fault.