Hi, my name is helen2468!

helen2468

Hi I’ve just joined because I receive pip for anxiety and depression and I am so worried and consumed about the potential of pip being taken away from me by government changes it is literally crushing my mental health at the moment. We need to have some clarity especially those of us with the mental health problems that are being touted as “less severe” than others and wish the government could see how these potential changes are already affecting people like me to an overwhelming extent.

Leigh14

Hi Helen. I imagine we’re all wondering the same thing really, but until something is announced, there is no point in worrying. That’s easier said than done I know, but worrying isn’t going to change anything, but from what you’ve written, it’s affecting your mental health more, which isn’t good. Hope you’re ok.

Rachel_Scope

Hi @helen2468.

I'm sorry the worry is affecting your mental health. I completely understand why, it is such an uncertain time. All I can say is that any changes won't come into force for a while. They'll need to announce their plans, have a transition period where they trial the changes, and then roll it out to everyone. It could take years.

How do you look after yourself? Do you have any hobbies?

helen2468

Hi Rachel, I get a lot of help from my two children and rely a lot on my dog to help me manage day to day . It was only when I was awarded PIP that I was able to get my dog and she has been a godsend since my youngest son went to university. When things like the potential changes to PIP happen it really tends to take over and send my anxiety through the roof and unfortunately for people like me you can’t just pack it away and worry about it later it affects your sleep and every part of your day to day.

Rachel_Scope

Hi @helen2468.

I'm so glad your children help you and it's wonderful you have a dog. What's their name?

I have anxiety and depression too so I can relate to how you feel. It's easy for those who don't to think we're just sad or in a bad mood. It should definitely be treated more seriously. Do you have any mental health care at the moment?

helen2468

My dogs called Evie she’s a cavapoo and we are literally always together.
I have had anxiety and depression for a long time and I am currently managed by my GP ( she is great and has known me for years) as I often struggle with being able to go out so appointments are difficult and I can’t cope with anyone in my home without my anxiety being heightened . I’ve had mental health care over the years but i find that my family keep me stable in the main but the smallest of things day to day can cause me to spiral so the PIP stuff is dreadful for me.
Im sorry to hear that you have anxiety and depression also , i hope you’re ok. I feel that unless you suffer with it yourself it is impossible to understand how debilitating it can be.

Rachel_Scope

Aww I love the name Evie. Dogs are just so wonderful aren't they?

I'm really glad that you have an understanding GP who knows you well, and that's great that your family play a big part in keeping you stable 😊 It's an awful time for everyone on benefits not knowing what's going to happen but we need to try and remind ourselves that it is out of our control for now and it could take years for changes to be made.

Little things can make me spiral too, especially if I've lost something. My husband has to take over the search 😂 Do you like listening to music or drawing? I find music really helps me to relax and take me out of the anxiety for a little while.

helen2468

I do listen to music sometimes and watch tv, anything to try to distract me for a while. Unfortunately I wasn’t blessed in the art department and have very poor concentration which is partly why my children wanted me to get Evie. I’m so glad I did I’d be lost without her now.