Can people diagnosed with depression claim any benefits?

juanmanuelmarquez

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It is likely to be worthwhile reading out full guide to Mental health, depression and debt

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Hi everyone,
I have been suffering from depression these past couple of months due to financial issues, i droppped out of uni and have 15k debt, so decided to claim job seekers, the situation has worsened and i had all sort of thoughts, inc suacide, killing people, being angry all sorts, im currently on anti depresant pills and wondering whether i could claim any benefits as my job seekers have cut off due to not signing on due to depression appointments at the clinic.


cant i claim any work related benefits i.e employment support allowance, etc....?

Fiddlestick

juanmanuelmarquez wrote: »

Hi everyone,
I have been suffering from depression these past couple of months due to financial issues, i droppped out of uni and have 15k debt,

I am sorry to hear that - I have walked many a mile in your shoes so I know what it is like.

so decided to claim job seekers, the situation has worsened and i had all sort of thoughts, inc suacide, killing people, being angry all sorts, im currently on anti depresant pills

Firstly, I hope you are discussing these issues with your GP and/or any referral services - that's always the best place to start.


and wondering whether i could claim any benefits as my job seekers have cut off due to not signing on due to depression appointments at the clinic.

cant i claim any work related benefits i.e employment support allowance, etc....?

In itself depression doesn't make you eligible for benefits, but if it impacts your life in such a way that it makes you unfit for work then you may be able to claim DLA or ESA and I'm sure someone will be able to advise you further.

If I can give you some advise then I'd suggest - again as someone that has been there - that you try your best NOT to go down that road. It's very disempowering and depressing to think that you are too ill to work and to not do anything with yourself.

Even if it's just volunteering or getting out of the house for a walk or having coffee with a friend, try and keep your activity levels up.

It *does* get better, I promise you :)_

dandelionclock30

You may be able to claim ESA and DLA, best off going to the CAB and asking them for advice and they will help you get the debt issue sorted as well.
If not currently well enough to work then your not well enough. You can go back on JSA when you feel better.

Parricull

you need a note off the doctor to claim esa