Extremely concerned - ESA medical a week today

Hi Helen, I also have been diagnosed with BPD, social phobia and anxiety disorder. The medical last year was horrible because BPD is a mental illness that fluctuates. You can be fine one minute and then in complete despair the next with intense suicidal thoughts. I have always had a welfare rights officer complete my form. I think as you are a single parent without a partner working full time, you will be successful in getting ESA, even if you have to appeal. Last year I got the welfare rights office to complete the form, but did not send any additional information. When I went to the medical I took all my hospital discharge summaries, psychiatric letters, and a supporting letter from my TC. I was then put in the WRAG group. Fortunately I discovered this site before my medical and I read every bit of information I could about what questions would be asked, and how to answer them to get the highest points. This sounds like manipulation, but the questions they ask are designed to trip you up, so you have to prepare yourself. I know it will be time consuming, especially when you have a baby to look after, but reading the info here about the medical and what to expect saved my life. Really hope you will try not to get too stressed. Good Luck.

Helana

i read ur post with interest as i aslo have mental illness & bipolar along with me/cfs, tho i dont have a baby, & u r so right when u say the condition fluctuates. i can b stable for a long time but suddenly get ill again, in fact my last crisis happened because i tried 2 go back 2 work & couldnt cope with the stress of it.

i got placed in2 ESA wrag group without a medical but i am appealing 2 b placed in2 support as i dont think i could attand the work focused interviews or take part in any work related activities. it is hard 2 match the support descriptors 2 a lot of mental health but im going 2 try.

i wish u good luck & pls keep us updated.

martin

Forgive my ignorance - but what bearing does being a single parent have on eligibility for ESA?

Thanks Gordon!I am new to this and still trying to learn ...