Anyone ever go through a psych evaluation for disability?

I have an appointment scheduled next week with a psychologist chosen by the Social Security office for a "mental examination". I am still in the determination phase for disability and last week I received a letter stating that the evidence they obtained was not complete enough for them to make decision.

During my initial application, I listed my illnesses for disability in this order: Depression, Fibromyalgia, Anxiety, and ADD. The depression and fibro are neck and neck for most debilitating, but it seems the depression may carry more weight for my case so I put it first. Fibro is still so tricky.

Does anyone have any experience going through a psych eval for Major Depressive Disorder? Do you know what specifically they are looking for? Any tips?

I have a disability thread started over in the Fibromyalgia forums for anyone who may be in a similar situation. There are a few of us waiting for our determinations. Feel free to join in the wait and get some support.

www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=24&m=2490734

I don't think that the psych exam is scarey or anything. Like Trina said, be 100% honest. But keep in mind that your psychological issues do effect the way that you live your life. I just recently applied for ssi. We make too much money for me to qualify. It is really frustrating to me. But I did try. I thought that if I was disabled, when I turn 55 I could get my husband's SS. But I could be wrong. I am going to have to look over the rules. I think I have to be a widow. Not sure about it.

I hope that you get it. If they ask you any questions about working, remember, it means doing something 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. So look at the overall picture. I haven't had a psych exam by a SS doctor, so I am sorry I am no help. But I want to wish you good luck, and do let us know how it goes. Remember, you may be denied up to 3 times, so keep appealing. They do try to make it so that you want to give up.

Hugs, Karen

I had the same experience as Kaely. He asked several questions and I was on my way in about 40 minutes.

Bill

I'd go in 'as is' unless you can't stand it. You want them to see what it's really like for you to try to function.