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Dreamer2 · 05-11-2003, 12:00 PM

This is the way it works in Maryland. You apply for SSDI benefits, and you are most always turned down the first time, I guess to weed out the ones who do not really need help, and won't bother to appeal. You will need a good disability lawyer. Some people try to do it on their own, but I strongly advise getting an attorney. I do believe that you have a better chance as they know what SSA is looking for, how to word it.

One important thing is to have your doctor's on your side. If you are in therapy, taking meds for depression, the fact that you were let go from your job b/c of this illness is important. Also the fact that you were hospitalized is very important.

When in a chronic state of depression, you do have problems with concentration, thinking, can't complete tasks, no energy, etc and the attorney will do it all for you when you provide them with all the info they will need. Depression can be a dibilatating illness, I know.

Just my opinion. Ive been there. My dh didn't understand my illness either which was a bit different from yours. I have physical problems as well.

I know people don't take this seriously unless they have experienced it first hand. This is rough. It's almost like you don't look disabled, so it's all in your mind...right? They just have no clue. I wish you the best and hope you have started this process already. It does take time.

05-11-2003, 12:00 PM	#3 (permalink)
Dreamer2 Paused Join Date: May 2003 Location: Hagerstown, MD Posts: 17	Maybe I can shed some light This is the way it works in Maryland. You apply for SSDI benefits, and you are most always turned down the first time, I guess to weed out the ones who do not really need help, and won't bother to appeal. You will need a good disability lawyer. Some people try to do it on their own, but I strongly advise getting an attorney. I do believe that you have a better chance as they know what SSA is looking for, how to word it. One important thing is to have your doctor's on your side. If you are in therapy, taking meds for depression, the fact that you were let go from your job b/c of this illness is important. Also the fact that you were hospitalized is very important. When in a chronic state of depression, you do have problems with concentration, thinking, can't complete tasks, no energy, etc and the attorney will do it all for you when you provide them with all the info they will need. Depression can be a dibilatating illness, I know. Just my opinion. Ive been there. My dh didn't understand my illness either which was a bit different from yours. I have physical problems as well. I know people don't take this seriously unless they have experienced it first hand. This is rough. It's almost like you don't look disabled, so it's all in your mind...right? They just have no clue. I wish you the best and hope you have started this process already. It does take time.