The whole process of applying for disability is a very long drawn out, very tedious and very painstaking thing to go through. You have to fit certain criteria with regards to mental disabling conditions. I'm sure your T would be very supportive if they are saying that it's ok to apply. It's not for the faint hearted, there is a ton of paperwork to do when putting an application in. that said, if you are approved for disability then that is great, you shouldn't feel bad if you have a diagnosis that is covered by SS and you cannot work because of it. If you do get it, it doesn't mean you'll end up like your father. I think you should really talk to your T's more about it to come to a conclusion if you should apply or not. Good luck with your decision. It's a hard thing to go through by yourself, I would advise hiring a lawyer that specializes in social security disability cases.