I just want to get other people's opinion on whether you think getting approved for Social Security Disability will hurt me in the long run. I already applied and was denied twice and now I am waiting for a court hearing which could take even longer since i applied last September. I quit working the same day and haven't been able to work since. I have been hospitalized 6 times in two years and my meds are still not making me stable enough. I can't go back to working in my old field and I am too scared to even think about finding a job now.

My very best friend says she believes if I get the disability it will hurt me as I will depend on that income and never try to find work again. She means well, but I felt ashamed and now I'm wondering if she is right. I'm 48 years old and in a very rocky marriage right now. I could use the income and Medicare that comes with it.

What do you all think?