overwhelmed and low

[RachelSut]

I’m frustrated and fast becoming stressed out and depressed-help!!
Last week I had a really bad time pain and fatigue wise so felt quite low.:( Anyway this week started a lot better:) then yesterday I received a 20 page form to complete from the benefits office (I get income support-finally –after a 3 month stressful battle when my claim went to 3 different offices that were all practically impossible to contact on the phone unless you liked living on hold and then eventually speaking to someone who seemed to know nothing! I was filling in form after form providing them with the info they ‘needed’-half of which was either not applicable or a repeat of what I had already told them. )
The form wants me to explain how my illness affects my ability to work and they want to send me to a state doc in the new year. I’m so worried, how do you explain the sheer pain and fatigue we suffer on paper and what if the state doc declares me fit? My bloods are not firmly conclusive for lupus (not unusual i know)but the consultant has dx CTD probable SLE 'cos of the severity of my symptoms:(
If they stop my money I really don’t know how I’ll pick myself up psychologically as I’ll be broke and suffering a chronic illness. I know I shouldn’t be stressing before it happens but am just overwhelmed by everything-it’s too much!! I just wanted to enjoy Christmas and forget about all this:( Now it's all at the front of my mind again:cry:
Rachel:worried:

[wannagobed]

Hi Rachel, I've made several claims over the years and I can identify with that booklet thing! Just tell them about your worst day, that's what they want to hear about. They need to hear how bad it can get for you and how awful your life is with this illness. Don't worry about repeating yourself or telling them the info which seems irrellevant, it's all considered. The Doctor is there purely to stop those who want to cheat the system. They will know you are genuine from your symptoms. Let's face it, who would want to feign this illness? A bad back is so much easier!Don't be afraid of the Doctor, you are well within your rights to claim and don't let anyone make you think otherwise.:(
Be well,(((((Hugs!))))))
Carol.

[helloos]

Rachel.

I don't know much about your application, etc. be as honest as you can and maybe have someone help you --------------but I saw that you were feeling low and wanted to send you hugs -
Try to do it and then forget it and enjoy your holiday.
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/pauld09/myspace-codes-comments-101.gif

[Paulin46]

Rachel, I can't really blame you for being upset. Do you have a loved one that can go with you or help you out with this. Someone who knows your history well. I really don't know anything about this, but I am so sorry you are stressed.

((((((((((((((((((((((((big hug to Rachel))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Try not to worry hon............I know easier said than done.........:(

[ROSST]

I know these forms are a real pain.
My Lupus severely affects my hands & Wrists, so writing is very difficult and painful. I recently got DLA - after filling in the 50 page form which took me 6 weeks.

I am now in the process of filling in the forms for Incapacity Benefit. I hate repeating myself, especially when it takes me so long. (I also was a bit down about having to do these next lot of forms)

It is worth it - it just very tiresome.

[balla]

hi can i just add there is help in filling in these forms and they also help you fight if you need some.The citizans advice will come to your home if you can't physically get to there office.My sister-in-law had hers all filled in by them and also won her case there is so much to go through when ill.Also your family doctor can help i get help from social services due to hubby having to work and have someone come and help me with baths etc when needed. I also have an alarm if i fall so i can pull and someone will ring then come round.

bye for now sue x

[Raglet]

hi there

I don't know anything about your system, but that form sounds dreadful. In your shoes I would set myself a more manageable goal, like a page a day (or whatever is manageable). Then you wont go totally insane. Phew, not a very nice Christmas present, I hope Santa is kinder to you

raglet

[RachelSut]

thanks for all your messages of support. :) As you suggested Sue I got in touch with the benefits advice office and somebody is coming to help me on Tuesday, hope it gets sorted!!
Love Rachel

[balla]

hi rachel, tell them everything even if it seems small to you and how this illness is disabeling you when it's at it's worse.They are there for you not against you like the medical team from the DHSS.And try and have someone there when they come in case you forget to add something.
hope all goes well and keep us informed.

GOOD LUCK HUN ((((HUGS))) sue x

[debbieyeates22]

hi rachel, tell them everything even if it seems small to you and how this illness is disabeling you when it's at it's worse.They are there for you not against you like the medical team from the DHSS.And try and have someone there when they come in case you forget to add something.
hope all goes well and keep us informed.

GOOD LUCK HUN ((((HUGS))) sue x

Hi
I also have had to give up work, and have put the forms in for D.L.A i'm dreading it, what if they don't think i'm ill enough? on the same hand who will employ me now,when i'm under the hospital every 6 wks for lupus? i'm just praying they will help me thats all, thats from someone that has worked all her life and never stopped,and never claimed a penny, just hope thay don't make it to painful for me.
frustrated.

[RachelSut]

Get in touch with a benefits advisor, their help is invaluable and helps reduce your stress levels! :)