[Yoshi]

I just had a question for you all. I dont know if this is the right place to put this, but if not hopefully it gets moved to the right place.

My friends mom said I should try to get on disability.

I've had gal bladder failure, and stones, had to get it removed, I'm BiPolar, and my doctor says I have severe depression, and I have PCOS, and now I might be ADD [my doctor thinks].

I'm only 17, had my surgery at 16. Even though it might not seem like it, but all this stuff costs alot of money, medications I have to buy, specific food, ect.

My friends mom seems to think I can get a disability check to help us pay for the things I need since we can barley afford them.

My mom wants to try, but she thought I should get a few oppions first.

[bebop]

the only thing I can see that "might" qualify you is the bi polar disorder. that is a mighty big might though. with you being so young and all. you can try though.

[Yoshi]

Thanks Bebop for your reply

[(JD)]

I'd say go for it and do it before you become 18!

http://http://bipolar.about.com/od/disability/a/disability_bp.htm

I'm sorry to hear you suffer.

[Yoshi]

Thanks JD, and thanks for the helpful link

[Perna]

"Social Security makes payment under the SSI program to disabled children under 18 whose families have little income and resources. SSI payments are based on need rather than prior work and may be paid to children regardless whether a parent is retired, disabled or has died. These benefits also continue as long as the child is disabled and has little income or resources.

"A child under 18 is considered disabled if his or her physical or mental condition is so severe that it results in marked and severe functional limitations. The condition must last or be expected to last at least 12 months or be expected to result in the child's death. And of course, the child must not be working at a job that we consider to be substantial work."

From: http://www.ssa.gov/kids/parent6.htm

[Jewels]

SSI programs are state funded, and they not only service disabled children, but also children from 0-18 who's parents are extremely poor. I get a check from SSI for my daughter who lives with me...granted it's only about $300, but it helps me make the payments that I need to make...like electricity, gas, and even can give her spending money each month...and, because we live below the poverty line, we also get medicaid, food stamps and a reduction on our apartment. So I am truly blessed, and can tell you where to go to find those things as well. If I didn't get food stamps and assistance with my rent, we would be homeless and out of food. You can contact your local department of human services office to find out if your family is eligible for food stamps, and also to see if you can get SSI money. You don't have to be disabled. Just under the age of 18. SSDI, which is the Federal program, gives money to those who are 18 and over. I encourage you to tell your mom and dad about this program, as it may mean that you may get some money coming into the house on your behalf. You may be eligible for Medicaid. This is something that your parents have to check out. This is only for Americans, I am unsure of what Canada's programs are. This is actual experience, as my daughter is NOT disabled at all. She gets a monthly SSI check, gets Medicaid, and we get food stamps because my income is only SSDI.

[Yoshi]

Thanks for all thew replies !!!
Also, I will talk to them about it jewels, thanks for that great info.

[krzyk101]

I would suggest to apply for SSI as a short term thing. Then, if you are accepted, use the education programs to your advantage to persons on disability and get a college degree and if you are able to work full time and go to doctors and a lot of therapy and since you have been diagnosed so young you may have a future of not having to live in poverty for the rest of your life. I recieve SSDI I was diagnosed or misdiagnosed at the age of 21, before the mental health agency encouraged me to quit my job live in group homes which no longer exist, and stop my dream of becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. Do not think that just because you have Bipolar and some physical disorders that you must live a life on SSI, you are so young and it is not at all fun I am sure you know to be Bipolar, But you are intelligent enough to finish High School and go on to College I would strongly suggest that you do think of that option after the SSI and after hopefully you are able to get your Bipolar under control.

Now at 38 my physical health is deteriorating and I Mentally, barely am able to post properly any longer and I just don't want you to throw away your potential of getting an education and a good paying job when you get older.

If I knew back when I was 21 what I know now, and there were more than Thorazine back then I may have been able to get the help I needed and pursue the dream and passion I once had and once was able to succeed before my health ended up as it has now.

Best Wishes to you and I am sorry that you are suffering, just try and remember you can have a future. Sometimes the Mental Health Agency's can persuade you to go into what is in THEIR best interest, not yours. I do honestly wish you the best of a future life.

Take Care and Good Luck to you, and keep up your dreams and passion for life. God Bless,
Christopher

[Gus1234U]

Dear Yoshi,,, in order to be considered "disabled" by Social Security, you need 2 doctors to say, in writing, that you cannot work, that your condition will prevent you from being able to work, or words to that effect. all the otheropinions about how you suffer mean nothing to Soc Sec. and do not be fooled into hiring a lawyer for 25% of your back pay, until you have been denied at least once,,, depending on your state. see if there is an Independent Living Center near you, they can often help you find free resources to help you prepare your file for submission to SocSec. I hope you get some support, some income, and some respect. and then i hope you have a good doc, and a quick recovery~! Gus

[madisgram]

Originally Posted by Yoshi

I just had a question for you all. I dont know if this is the right place to put this, but if not hopefully it gets moved to the right place.

My friends mom said I should try to get on disability.

I've had gal bladder failure, and stones, had to get it removed, I'm BiPolar, and my doctor says I have severe depression, and I have PCOS, and now I might be ADD [my doctor thinks].

I'm only 17, had my surgery at 16. Even though it might not seem like it, but all this stuff costs alot of money, medications I have to buy, specific food, ect.

My friends mom seems to think I can get a disability check to help us pay for the things I need since we can barley afford them.

My mom wants to try, but she thought I should get a few oppions first.

how about considering SSI? it will give you a monthly check (but less than total disability) and give you medical coverage that will cost you nothing. you can work but some of your check will be reduced by the money you make. idk but having a job if you are up to it may also have benefits for you ..social interaction, sense of being productive, etc. you may have quicker success getting this for starters.
i'm curious...any reason for the need of "specific food"?

[GRUMPYPA]

If going on disabilty is going to help you go for it there are a lot of people out there that are on disability that should not be, never feel guilty about asking for assistance. All these things add up towards your illness and dont help towards recovery. All the best to You.