Depression and DLA

loveandlight

I've just watched a programme and a benefits advisor said its possible to claim Disability Living Allowance if you have a mental illness. Does anyone know if its possible to get it if you are severely depressed to the point you have suicidal tendencies?

I'm trying to see if I can help someone out who did commit suicide a few months ago but the paramedics brought the person back to life and they are now starting to go downhill again.

Thanks

sonianorman38

Hi

yes you can get DLA. The crazy thing is it is a fight and when mentally ill you have no fight. I was awarded mine following my suicide attempt after being refused twice before when i was ill but hadn't tried to kill myself. its a crazy system not helped by the stigma that goes with mental health that all of society have, including benefits advisors!

dmg24

If someone has care and mobility needs they can claim DLA. However, if she is really poorly your first port of call should be their GP or their Mental Health Worker (psychiatrist, CPN etc).

loveandlight

This person should be getting help but they are not getting any support at all from their GP or Mental Health Team.

Indie_Kid

Have they pushed for help? Have they asked for a second opinion?

Robbie64

DLA can be paid for care needs that arise from the need to supervise (watch over) someone who has suicidal tendencies but the supervision usually must be for a significant proportion of the day and / or night.

The test is whether such a person can function without any threat, harm or danger to his or herself (or indeed to others) without supervision. The threat of imminent suicide, or attempted suicide does not have to be continuously present but there must be a reasoned belief that without such supervision then there is a reasonable likelihood that harm could ensue.

loveandlight

His actions are crying out for help and complaints have been made to PALS in their area but he is still on his own. When he committed suicide he was brought back to life and then taken to hospital where he 'escaped twice' and ran off. On one of those occaisions he walked for 10 miles in barefeet down the M6 motorway in the early hours of the morning with his hospital gown still on and the drips still attached to him. A stranger came across him (imagine bumping into someone like that late at night)and phoned the police. He was then admitted to a psychiatric hospital where he stayed for two weeks and was only seen by a doctor briefly for about three or four times and was then discharged without any support whatosever.

dmg24

I know it is a hassle, but keep pushing. If he is in immediate danger, take him to A&E.