“My BIOS is password locked but proprietary (due to compatibility issues).”

“I use full disk encryption, multiple disks, and a second layer of encryption for specific important files (NSA style)”

I recommend switching to Libreboot, I’ve recently helped add support for the Dell Optiplex 9020 MT, and will soon add support for the Dell Precision T1700 MT. Libreboot allows for full disk encryption, including the automatically encrypting the /boot partition during installation of an OS. I use RAID 0 with 3 disks (LUKS and LVM) on my desktop, with my /boot unencrypted stored on a SD card so I can easily toss it whenever.

For gaming, I’ve had success using Proxmox to play games like GTA V and Rainbow Six Siege through a VM, even passing through NVIDIA drivers (though I plan to switch to AMD). Although, currently the Haswell boards (9020MT and T1700MT) can’t use IOMMU correctly so I recommend using the T1650 for passing through your GPU to a VM. Beware though, the T1650 board can’t be freed entirely in the BIOS I believe.

Also, updating your CPU microcode can help avoid potential performance issues. If you’re concerned about security, consider GPG signing your kernel with Libreboot GRUB for an additional layer of verification at boot.

I’m sorry to hear that you’re not doing well. If you feel comfortable, sharing more about what’s going on might help, and I’m here to listen.