Medical Tomorrow (mental health) - advice?

Hello all.

I finally have my medical assessment tomorrow after waiting almost 6 months.

I have been reading up and been told all kinds of horror stories that I would be bullied due to my condition being centred around mental health (severe anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts). That I would not be taken seriously and in some cases outright lie.

I would please just like a little advice and to hear from anyone that has experienced a medical assessment for similar disability.

I do not have anyone to accompany me unfortunately and I have also heard that this will count against me - is this true? I will be getting a lift from family but they won't be able to join me inside.

Hello,

I too have serious mental health issues which sound similar to yours and am really hoping that things go well for you at the assessment. I attended by receiving a lift but went in alone as would not be comfortable talking about such a personal matter with any one present. I have put my experience so far on the forum and will update after 18th May when I have sent further evidence and a rather long letter disputing their findings. The whole process is not fit for purpose it seems but best to stay calm until you hear from them. There will be help available should you need it and you may not need it anyway! Best of luck

Hello I'm also have assement in a few days after waiting nearly 7 months i too am going out my mind the thought of it makes me feelsick I have both anxiety ,depression and some physical problems , I have only my son to come with me he is only 22 and has a lot of his own issues , could you please let me know how it went if you don't mind I would really apreaciate it Donna x I hope it went okay for you x

Thanks for your replies.

Sorry Donna, I didn't see your response until today. I hope your assessment went ok.

Mine was fine, the 'nurse' was quite understanding, even though she didn't ask any questions about work related activities, which I found a bit odd.

I finally called them today - after waiting over 6 weeks without hearing from them and have been told that I've been placed in the Support group, which - if it is actually officially confirmed - is going to be a big help. I was apparently placed into this on May 22nd but haven't been informed and am still on the assessment amount.

The only advice I can give Donna, if you are still waiting, is to just be honest and don't try and act brave or hide any anxiety or feelings you may have.

Does anybody know what - if any - back dated payments I may be entitled to? I have been on the assessment rate since November. Just curious as the last few months of being off work have resulted in mounting debts and it would help considerably.

Many thanks.

Hi, I posted a reply - with further questions - yesterday (15/6) morning but it appears to have been missed.