please help!

Hi Rachel, Of course ignore JSA unless and until the DWP make you consider it! Ideally, your appeal will be allowed and you won't have to think about JSA. Very, very good luck with it. Do pester the MP though, don't let them think it's all ok, cos it really, really isn't.

Ah, Derek. I hope your health problems soon improve, thanks for your advice.

Thanks Jules, that nightmare sleep problem I had is now over. I was just referring to the past.

Hi Rachel,

So sorry to hear about your predicament. As has been suggested, try and gain advice from a benefits worker. My psychiatrist sorted out one for me and he was a great support. Also, when you are in the right frame of mind, and I know it's not easy to get there, go through the advice on this website. Just try to do it in small junks if you can and make a few notes. I have suffered from depression and anxiety/panic disorder for many years. In addition I am now taking 'anti-cancer meds', following breast cancer 3 years ago, and they have terrible side effects. Chronic fatigue, painful joints, headaches, to name but a few. With the help of this site, I have recently been awarded ESA and today got a letter to say I have been successful with my DLA claim and have been awarded low mobility and middle rate care components. Whilst the Benefits adviser was supportive, it was mainly this site that gave me the information and the know-how to fill in the forms and get through the medical. Don't get me wrong, it has been a very stressful and depressing time sorting it all out, but the outcome speaks for itself.

Try to get someone to help you go through the site and never attend a medical on your own if you can avoid it. Also, get supporting letters from anyone who knows your situation (read before sending), not just health professionals but members of the family or friends.

I hope that you get the outcome you deserve. If you want to ask me anything else, just ask.

All the best, don't give up. It's not easy by any means but it's worth it in the end.

Carrie

Hi Carrie, so sorry I forgot to reply and I am very grateful for your advice. Reading through my notes today I think the biggest mistake I have made is to under estimate my mental health problems. Not sure what to do about this hmm. Loads of luck to you and thankyou again for your reply,
Rachel