Applying for PIP and mental health

[Sunandstorms]

I’m really unsure whether or not to apply for PIP. I’ve been really unwell with depression for around 18 months now and not able to work / do an awful lot of other things - this has included a 5 month admission under section and still needing really intensive treatment (seeing psych twice a week etc) and lots of support. But I don’t know if I can honestly say I expect this to carry on for another 12 months - my psychiatrist tells me his aim and expectation is for me to get better and to get back to work…but he’s been saying that since the start. And presumably that’s the case for pretty much everyone with mental health problems - surely the aim and hope is for treatment to help and people to get better rather than being permanently and irrevocably disabled - so
how does anyone claim PIP? We could really do with some help financially as we’re struggling with the cost of me not working as well as the practical challenges but I don’t want to be fiddling the system a nd claiming something I don’t deserve.

Look at the pip descriptors and if any apply to your day to day repeatedly then it's worth applying. I know 2 people getting it for low mood and anxiety and I've helped with both their applications, and there is no way to know if and when they will improve...counselling, cbt or some other therapy may or may not help them...it's hard to determine really. Citizens advice website has help/info about Pip application

I get PIP for MH issues. It is there for those who cannot work due to a health issue, physical or mental so I suggest you apply. Be warned, the forms are VERY long and you need to be really detailed. Happy to answer any questions.

There’s definitely lots of the descriptors that apply - DH does a huge amount for me including looking after medication, all the food prep, nagging me to eat, supporting me to see friends when I feel up to it etc etc.

I guess I can fill in the forms honestly and see what happens? Just feel so guilty about the amount I’m costing the nhs already that I feel bad trying to get more money.

I get pip for mh. I was first awarded it for 2 years which seemed a reasonable amount of time for me to get better and back into work. It's not a 'forever' benefit.