more from Sheez1
My son is 22 and bipolar. He has spent time the the hospital on a couple of occasions and since he has not been able to hold a job we applied for social security for him with an advocate that helped fill out his application to apply. They sent me (mom) and my son a form to fill out which was very painful but, we managed to do it. This was will everyone telling us we would be turned down and he would have to appeal blah blah blah. God worked a miracle and we just found out this week his social security caseworker qualified him. This was applied for and forms sent back in may. His caseworker also informed him that he would qualify for state disability and told him to apply. He also received his medical card this week. God does hear our prayers. I don't know if he will qualify for state disability but, the social security caseworker seems to think so. We have also been told he can get subsidized housing. This is great for someone like him so he doesn't have to worry about what would happen to him if I wasn't here. This has been such a fear for him.
from oakgiraffes
Applying for Social Security Disability is a tedious effort of just keeping up with the paper work. In my case, when I applied, I was so sick, I couldn't get dressed, couldn't get out of the house, I thought the depression and anxiety were going to kill me alone. I called social security for the paperwork. They wanted an interview at their office but since I was unable to do that, they conducted a phone interview with me. I believe the real key to obtaining SSD is answering all their paperwork as thoroughly and promptly as possible.
My husband helped me with a lot of my original paperwork. You are going to need your entire work history and mental history to share with them.
I never used an attorney and I won without an appeal. I really didn't even have the cooperation of a doctor. I was lucky enough for someone to tell me about SSD, I did not know such a thing existed. I figured what the heck, what more did I have to lose. I knew I couldn't keep working and stay sane, I kept quitting or getting fired because I was in no state of mind to be handling employment. I've never looked at a doctor's assistance for SSD, as telling them they are a failure at getting me well. Many of us have to learn different ways of living. SSD does not mean the end of your life and you have paid into it. Your illness is no less severe than anyone else that may be eligible. It is your money and you've earned that compensation!! Many people told me not to apply, that I'd trash my life in the process. Course those that told me that, hadn't been through what I had been through! Nor are these same people in my life today, enjoying my wellness and almost sound mind.
from deborah6230
I had to give up my job, and go out on SSDI, I no longer want to kill myself - I miss working but instead I take classes at the local college and university to improve my intellect and to try to keep me somewhat sharp - my income is low now so I am eligible for free tuition and free books because I am on SSDI - I am vital - I am caring - sometimes we with BP have all we can do to just get through the day - I have simplified my life.
more from deborah6230
after working from age 17-45, I had to go out of SSDI because of my BP - the transition from a good pay check to SSDI has been riveting - so many times I have felt embarrassed about being on disability - thank you for reminding me that I am taking care of myself and that it is OK to get SSDI.
from Tami
I started getting SSI and DI this past may, and let me tell you it's a pain to get. Once you get it, though, it can be an excellent tool to get back on your feet. Don't let other people or the thought of other people dictate your self-worth. You're not damaged goods, and bipolar has never made anyone a less valuable person.
More of this Feature
- Part 1: Can I Get Disability for Bipolar?
- Part 2: Applying for Disability
- Part 3: Appeals and Lawyers
- Part 4: Four Questions Answered
- Part 5: Assisting a Grown Child
- Part 6: Words of Encouragement
