I'm no longer on SSI because my husband's income exceeds the limit. It stopped when we got married. But I used to be on it, so I understand.

Especially when the disability is mental, yes, we do get judged. "Why, if anyone has reason to be depressed, I do. I have this problem and that problem, but I don't let it get me down. I *choose* to be happy!" Even worse, I've been told I'm not a real Christian, or else I wouldn't have problems with depression and anxiety. Jesus would have delivered me from them. So yes, I'd call that the definition of judging.

Edited to add: "Has a bird"? I've never heard that expression before. Gee, I wonder why I would be drawn to it. Is that like "having a cow"?