Is there any point applying for pip if I appear to be perky.

[Vagessence]

I've had clinical depression, bpd and anxiety for over 10 years. I manage to function for the sake of my kids but otherwise it's pretty crippling. My parter picks up a lot of the slack but when I'm alone during the day with my two boys I go into mum autopilot and do what needs to be done.

My issue is that I'm worried I may not be taken seriously if I applied for pip as:

1. I'm able to be a stay at home mum, look after them, take them out etc.

1. I come across as extremely bubbly and not at all depressed. It's something that's developed over the years due to many reasons such as not wanting to make people uncomfortable over me feeling like shit. My GP even commented at one point that I seem alright.. I'm really not. If it wasn't for my kids I wouldn't be able get out of bed.

One other worry is that they'll hear all I have to say and think unable to look after my kids due to how I feel and get social services involved (which has nearly happened when I've reached out for help from other services. No one seems to believe I can feel awful and suicidal but be able to put it to one side to look after them).

Sorry, this post is a bit long winded and not very to the point but do you think there's any point in me applying for pip? And will they report me to social services for feeling awful 24/7 whilst being responsible for two kids?

IME they will tell you you're functioning therefore not eligible.

I was told that because I could make eye contact, had showered and was articulate that I was not eligible. Four days days prior I was suicidal.

I could be wrong but that's my experience

And no. You won't get reported to social services.

Hi, I sometimes help people with PIP claims as part of my job.

If someone struggles to explain how their condition affects them, it can really help to have strong medical evidence - are you on medication for example, are you under the care of a psychiatrist or psychologist - do you have reports or letters from them and if not could they write you a supporting letter? Medical evidence is not essential but it helps.

Also, I would suggest that you consider getting help to complete the form, from Citizens Advice or similar, and also see if any of the major mental health and/or BPD organisations have tips on claiming PIP that are specific to your condition.

Regarding your question about social services, I really don't know, but it's my understanding that medical professionals would have a duty to report if they had any concerns that your children were at risk - but if you are able to look after them, despite your difficulties, they wouldn't be at risk.

The questions on the PIP form are all about your ability to look after yourself, not other people. If you can motivate yourself to do basic tasks most of the time (because of your children) you might struggle to get the points. However, it would be worth talking it through with a benefits adviser.

There are some "PIP self tests" that can help you get a sense of whether you might qualify.
www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/personal-independence-payment-pip/pip-self-test
www.pip-assessment.support/