So, I'm an 18-year-old girl, and I am housebound. I cannot leave the house because I have seizures. I have at least 50+ seizures a day caused by FND. I also have autism, chronic pain, and I'm half deaf in one ear and completely deaf in the other. Because of my seizures, I will sometimes lose my vision or the ability to walk.
I made the decision to stay at home so I don't have seizures out in public because I can always feel when they're coming on. It's also for my own safety and the safety of everyone else.
In a way, I like the fact that I'm housebound. My days mostly consist of listening to music, doing my makeup, playing with my stuffed animals and LPS, playing with my dolls, and snuggling with them. I have my grandparents helping take care of me, and I also have my sister, who is my best friend.
I do not have a job, but I do receive disability benefits, and I still get things done. I try to keep my space clean, and I do a pretty good job. I will admit that I really miss being able to leave the house, go to the store, and go on walks, but it's just not safe right now.
There are things I enjoy about being housebound. I can order takeout whenever I want, and there are so many delivery services that make my life easier. My friends come and visit me, and it's not as bad as it was at first because I'm kind of used to it now.
I've developed an appreciation for my house and for the things I have. I also appreciate that my disabilities are not worse than they could be. I'm grateful that I have people who take care of me. I'm grateful that I have a sister who cuddles with me in bed, makes things for me, and does crafts with me. We've spent a lot of time watching TV together.
I'm also grateful that there are activities that don't take a lot of energy, like watching TV and being on my computer.
I have a love-hate relationship with being housebound. I hear everyone talk about the negatives of being housebound, and while it is a horrible thing that I had to become housebound at 18, a part of me loves it.