I'm in the process of appealing the hearing judge's denial. They didn't have my file's in the system for the judge to review, so that was the first problem. At the hearing the judge asked me about my daily routine, side effects of meds., etc. I answered truthfully and didn't go into detail. I'm very upset that I didn't tell him more of the hell that we go through on bad days and how stress is our enemy more so than the average person. I happened to be having a pretty "good" day on the date of my hearing - so, in their eyes, it seemed that I was perfectly capable of working. (I don't think that I will "NEVER" be able to work, but right now I can't and I am in need of some financial help. I paid into the system over a course of 28 yrs. and right now I need some of that money until I get on my feet)

Anyway, it's a long process, but everyone gets denied the first couple of rounds. So if you do apply, here are my suggestions:

-make sure you file the re-consideration and appeal forms in a timely manner. I did this mostly online and it went pretty fast in the beginning.

-Get letters from your Pdoc. stating that you are unable to perform "normal" duties and that you cannot work (not even part time) giving an explanation of the devastating effects this illness has on you.  It helps if you have been hospitalized more than a few times.

If your case ends up going to a hearing, make sure that you have a Lawyer who knows what they are doing, and is educated in the area of Mental Illness. And when answering questions, make sure that you tell them how debilitating this is and that it does affect you physically. I'm not saying to lie, just come up with ways for them to really understand how emotionally and physically devastating this illness really is.

As we all know, there isn't near enough awareness as to the effects that BPD really has on our lives. Yes, there are people that have normal lives and can do a great deal while medicated with the right mix of meds. and therapy, but there are some who cannot function in their daily lives due to the major shifts in our brain's and body. We are all different, yet suffer in much of the same way. People need to be educated about the roller coaster ride that we are on most of the time and that it's not easy, at all, to get the real help that we need. Best of luck to you! 

Frank

10/ 8/08 10:35am

Thanxs, honestly I can function ok when working and so Im not that bad a case to them, It sure would be nice to get some cash from the gov anyday.

I recently talked with someone who has went threw what you have and was denied manytimes and still is, I also have a friend who is in bad shape and going threw shock therapy, in and out hospitals, suicide attempts, and the works, she has ben denied everytime and i can't believe it at all.

I know someone who has a health condition and he has a bad disease that gives him seizures he was denied 2 times but granted the third and receives about 450$ a week. so for health conditions its much easier but mentalhealth they almost won't give it, and yes a lawyer is needed no doubt, If you suffer so much I sure hope that you will find some relief at least from working, ill keep my fingers crossed for ya.