Well, since May of this year, I've held my job (overnight stocker at a home improvement store). It's almost 4 months now and that's the longest I've been able to hold a job since the systems started to really surface in May 2005. I used to call out a lot too, when I was working my past jobs post-May2005 (the jobs lasted less then a month or two). I'd call out at least once a week.
This recent job, I've only called out twice. Both due to a foot infection and a sinus infection, each time I had a doctor's note. :) So I have not missed any work related to my PTSD.. and for me.. it's a major step considering how often I missed work before.
There are nights where I get flashbacks, or have issues and get upset and really want to go home. But I'm able to hide in the rest room for a bit and silently cry it out, wipe cold water on my face, and get back to opening boxes and stocking shelves.. I'm grateful they let us have ipods/radios/ect while we work, because the music helps keep the negative thoughts away...
I just.. really hope this helps some of you.. because I didn't know if I could handle working... But I can.. I'm just really proud I kept this job this long. I'm only working 32 hours a week. But in Nov I'm asking for full-time. I think I can do it. If I don't feel ready, or they don't have the hours.. I'll ask during our busy season next spring...