Should I Disclose My Mental Illness for Special Enrollment?

TW for brief mentions of mental illness and suicidality

Sorry if this is a no-brainer question, but I have been working for an organization where talking about my mental health issues with clients is a big no-no for three years. I didn't disclose my Type 2 Bipolar Disorder or PTSD to my bosses until about a year into work, and accommodations didn't last terribly long as my caseload piled up. There's no extra time when you have to meet with people all over the county.

I resigned last month and after finishing up all the paperwork that needed to be done for the state, I am now without a job or the benefits I used to have. I needed to resign because I was experiencing suicidal ideations directly because of work.

How much of the events I just talked about should I tell the insurance agent(s) when I call tomorrow? I'm very a little bit paranoid about my record for employability and receiving healthcare. I'm guessing that "resignation" is less favorable for companies than "laid off" because it makes it look like I am just job and benefits shopping. I think that every time I disclose my mental illness and give my legal name, that's another notch in my record for people who have a stigma against hiring people with mental illnesses. Again, unnecessary disclosure has been a big no-no at work for three years, so I'm all messed up. Still, I know that Special Enrollment only works if you have a qualifying life event, and I would hope that nearly ending my "qualifying life" would be enough.

And no. I am not enrolled in Medi-CAL or Medi-CARE. The application process is a pain in the ass, and I would rather not have to stash extra earnings in a hidden savings account for the rest of my life. Aim high, America…

Thanks for any advice you can give, and I'm willing to answer most questions about what my mental disorders and previous job are about.

submitted by /u/Affectionate-Pair929
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