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Going to Social Security mental evaluation???

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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Posted 2/13/2013 8:09 PM (GMT 0)
I've filed for disability. In my claim, I wrote that my illness has led to my being depressed and causing me to have trouble with concentration. This is the truth, but I'm still worried. rolleyes

Has anyone of you been to one of these types of examinations? If so, can you tell me what goes on? I'm really worried, because I'm having trouble now even keeping up with housework; no way can I work.

Thanks
Posted 2/13/2013 10:00 PM (GMT 0)
I've been through one. I was so mentally drained by the time I finished I wasn't able to drive. Make sure you have someone to drive you.
It takes about 4 hours for the testing.
They ask you to remember a lot of things. They will read stories to you and ask you the details. Then a while later you're to recall the details again. Then awhile later ask again. I'd forget a lot by the third time. LOL!
You have to memorize pictures and they ask you to put them in order. They will give you numbers to memorize and put in order. You will also have to fill out some type of questionaire of how you feel about different things and situations.
It's very taxing. I wasn't allowed any water or restroom breaks during the testing. So please pee before you go in there. :)
Posted 2/14/2013 2:47 AM (GMT 0)
I have no one to drive me. Sounds so awful! I have ulcerative colitis, so I hope they'll let me take bathroom breaks. This sounds horrible! I'm really upset. I have very little stamina, anyway!
Posted 2/14/2013 2:59 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks, couchtater...it seems like every time I come on here with a problem you are the one with the answers. I have been really overwhelmed lately, not only by the disease, but by the limitations in my day to day living. Depression is one of my enemies; so I guess I shouldn't fear an exam for this disorder.
Posted 2/14/2013 3:13 AM (GMT 0)
You might want to hire someone to drive you or use a taxi service.

They will probably give you a break if you ask. But the tests are timed and it can mess up the tests to take a break. Ask if you can anyway.
Posted 2/14/2013 3:18 AM (GMT 0)
The appointment is in a neighboring city. I can't afford a driver, so I guess I'll just have to try to get home. Now I'm really scared, but I know that I'm not faking this disorder. The RA is one thing, but the constant pain and the depression caused by it are another. I'm having problems with my short-term memory as well as my concentration. I'm very depressed.
Posted 2/14/2013 8:51 PM (GMT 0)
Just take the drive slow and easy. If you have GPS you might want yo use it if you're too tired to think of directions.
If you're too tired you can take a nap in the car before heading home.
Posted 2/15/2013 7:44 PM (GMT 0)
Its over, and it was only an interview with a psychologist. No real testing. He just talked to me. I wasn't exhausted, but I was tired. Everything seems to wear me out. Lasted about 45 minutes.
Posted 2/16/2013 12:12 AM (GMT 0)
That is such good news April. I am so happy it was more brief than they normally are and you are home, safe and sound. I truly hope the testing goes in your favor, as it should and you are approved soon. Take care and oh! Thank you for welcoming me too. :)
Posted 2/16/2013 4:08 AM (GMT 0)
That's great they only talked to you! I wish that's all I had done.
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