If you are reading this you are probably thinking about applying for disability or you are already in the middle of the long and drawn-out process and I want you to know I feel for you. Applying for disability feels like trying to juggle flaming batons while riding a unicycle blindfolded on gravel in the rain. It is not for the faint of heart but I promise it is possible to come out the other side with an approval letter and a little peace of mind.
Let me walk you through what I learned what I wish I had known sooner and what might help you win your disability case without completely losing your sanity.
First Things First Know What You Are Applying For
Social Security Disability Insurance or SSDI and Supplemental Security Income or SSI are not the same. SSDI is based on your work history and how many credits you have earned through paying into Social Security. SSI is more need-based and has income limits.
I went the SSDI route because I had worked enough years before my body decided it had had enough. Make sure you know which one applies to your situation or if you are eligible for both.
Gather All Your Medical Records Yes Even That One From Five Years Ago
Here is the deal the more medical evidence you have the better. This is not the time to be humble or downplay your pain. The Social Security office does not know how hard it is for you to get out of bed in the morning unless you show them. I had stacks of records X-rays letters from specialists and even journals I kept tracking my pain.
Pro tip ask every doctor you have seen to give you a copy of your records. Be polite but persistent. I once had to call a clinic three times to get what I needed do not give up.
Get Your Doctor on Your Side
A supportive doctor can make or break your claim. I was lucky to have a doctor who truly understood my chronic pain and did not treat me like I was just being dramatic. She wrote a detailed statement explaining how my disability affected my daily life and that letter was pure gold.
If your doctor brushes you off or will not support your application it might be time to find one who will. You deserve someone in your corner.
Fill Out the Application Like Your Life Depends On It Because Honestly It Kind of Does
This is not the time to sugarcoat things or pretend you are fine. I know we are taught to be tough but the disability forms want honesty not bravery. Talk about your worst days. Explain exactly how your condition affects you physically emotionally financially all of it.
I had to describe how I could not stand long enough to cook a meal how grocery shopping wiped me out for days and how I needed help getting dressed some mornings. Do not leave anything out no matter how small it seems.
Consider Getting Help You Do Not Have to Do This Alone
I tried doing it myself at first big mistake. After months of getting nowhere fast I hired a disability lawyer who only got paid if I won. They knew the system how to talk to the SSA and what kind of language they were looking for. Honestly that support was a game changer.
You can also contact local disability advocates or legal aid services if money is tight.
Be Ready for the Long Haul And the Denials
Brace yourself most people get denied the first time. I sure did. I got that thin little rejection letter in the mail and cried my eyes out. But then I pulled myself together appealed the decision and got back to work. Well paperwork work. My back was not letting me near real work.
Do not let a denial stop you. That is just part of the process. Appeal submit more evidence and keep pushing.
Keep a Pain Journal
This was one of the best things I did. Every day I wrote down how I was feeling what I could or could not do and how long flare-ups lasted. It was not fancy just a notebook I kept on my nightstand but it painted a clear picture of what living with chronic pain really looks like. And guess what I submitted copies of that journal during my appeal.
Stay Patient and Be Kind to Yourself
This process is frustrating overwhelming and more than a little discouraging. There will be days you want to throw in the towel and days you feel like no one believes you. But do not give up.
You deserve support. You deserve to be heard. And you absolutely deserve to rest without guilt.
Final Thoughts from My Little Haven
Living with chronic pain is hard enough without having to prove it to a government agency. But if I can do it paperwork appeals tears and all so can you. I am not saying it will be easy but I am saying it will be worth it.
So hang in there keep fighting and if you ever need a little encouragement or have questions feel free to leave a comment or send me a message. You are not alone in this.
From one warrior to another,
Terri
