dally
14-03-16, 21:55
I had an ESA work capability assessment Fri
The application form for esa benefit was a minefield, and the more info online i read, the more complicated it seemed.
It also seemed that most people with mental health conditions failed the assessment and we're found fit for work!!
I was so despondent.
My first hurdle was the assessment centre was way , way out of my comfort zone for travel! As I am agoraphobic. Despite GP and occupational therapist letters they still told me I had to attend.
I was stuck in a traffic jam for 25 mins before arriving and my anxiety was through the roof!
But
Ironically it manifested in crying instead of uncontrollable flight or fight.
When I arrived and approached the reception desk, I was told two assessors were off sick, and I would be faced with, at least, an hour wait!
So, I promptly dissolved into tears.
The waiting area was mobbed, so the assistant ushered me into a private room, gave me water and 'prioritised' my appointment to the next available assessor.
This assessor WAS so understanding. She understood the various levels of agoraphobia.
And good and bad days of panic . she understood dependence and withdrawal of Valium.
She brought the assessment to a quick conclusion, because I had 'sufficient evidence' of my condition ( GP letters, prescribed medication, etc)
She went out of the room to discuss my case with the 'doctor'
Then came back and told me I would be placed in the support group.
I could not believe it, because I had read so many horror stories. Not only of failing the assessment but of the nasty and uneducated assessors.
My experience was of VERY caring admin staff and also assessors
The application form for esa benefit was a minefield, and the more info online i read, the more complicated it seemed.
It also seemed that most people with mental health conditions failed the assessment and we're found fit for work!!
I was so despondent.
My first hurdle was the assessment centre was way , way out of my comfort zone for travel! As I am agoraphobic. Despite GP and occupational therapist letters they still told me I had to attend.
I was stuck in a traffic jam for 25 mins before arriving and my anxiety was through the roof!
But
Ironically it manifested in crying instead of uncontrollable flight or fight.
When I arrived and approached the reception desk, I was told two assessors were off sick, and I would be faced with, at least, an hour wait!
So, I promptly dissolved into tears.
The waiting area was mobbed, so the assistant ushered me into a private room, gave me water and 'prioritised' my appointment to the next available assessor.
This assessor WAS so understanding. She understood the various levels of agoraphobia.
And good and bad days of panic . she understood dependence and withdrawal of Valium.
She brought the assessment to a quick conclusion, because I had 'sufficient evidence' of my condition ( GP letters, prescribed medication, etc)
She went out of the room to discuss my case with the 'doctor'
Then came back and told me I would be placed in the support group.
I could not believe it, because I had read so many horror stories. Not only of failing the assessment but of the nasty and uneducated assessors.
My experience was of VERY caring admin staff and also assessors