I haven't worked in 2 1/2 years and don't regret a minute of it. Every time I even think about trying to get back into nursing, my stomach clenches and I break into a cold sweat. (And no, there are no other jobs I'm qualified for...once your application shows you've worked as an educated professional, Mickey D's isn't interested in you.) In fact, I've been mostly stable for the entire time, mainly because my lifestyle is relatively low-stress (even after losing my husband in July).

Please don't get your hopes up and expect to hear from SS anytime soon. There's a whole lot more paperwork ahead, plus you'll have to supply records from your pdoc and you may need to see one of their psychiatrists and/or medical doctors. I believe you have to have been unable to work for six months prior to becoming eligible, but even then it usually takes another six months for them to make a determination. Once they approve you, you'll get a check for all the back payments owed to you. This can be a pretty big check!

For the record, I used a disability attorney and got benefits within six months. They take cases on a contingency basis, which means you don't pay them until you win. I think this is a wise move since they know all kinds of ways to work with the system. They will also pay for copies of all your medical records, which is expensive because you probably have a lot of documentation and doctor's offices will charge you by the page. (I don't know what they do with electronic medical records though.)

Good luck, and keep us posted.