ESA50 Questionnaire

I've just completed the ESA50 form.

I suffer from depression, panic attacks and anxiety.

My GP prescribes antidepressants. My depression has got alot worse recently and I seem to have built up a resistance to the antidepressants. As a result I've started drinking to help me cope.

I've been honest in my answers on the ESA50 Questionnaire and said that I am using a combining antidrepressants and alchohol to cope.

I KNOW THIS IS A BIG NO-NO to drink and take antidepressants but my mind isn't right at the moment, and I've always turned to alchohol when things go wrong.

My question is: I've sent the form off to ATOS. Will they hold this against me because I am drinking when I shouldn't be? Will this affect the outcome of my claim on the grounds that I'm not helping myself and my illness could be perceived as partially self inflicted?

Maybe I've too honest for my own good and shouldn't of mentioned it but it's the truth.

I'd appreciate any comments/thoughts

Hi,

As you are clearly aware, self-medicating with alcohol - especially when taking prescription drugs - is not a good idea.

But scrupulous honesty when completing benefits claim forms is a good idea. You were right to give this information and it will be taken into account, but there is no facility under the current legislation to penalise you for drinking.

In fact, it means the decision maker will, amongst other things, have to consider whether you are covered by the exceptional circumstances rules if you do not score enough points under the limited capability for work assessment. See our guide to claiming ESA on mental health grounds for more about this.

Good luck,

Steve

Thanks for your reply. It was worrying me that I had been a bit too honest with my answers. Your reply has reassured me.