I have suffered with anxiety and panic disorder from childhood but wasn't diagnosed until adulthood. I am really struggling to fill out the claim form for PIP as I get completely overwhelmed by the questions. I first applied in 2023 after meeting the criteria on the telephone PIP1 claim but when the physical firm arrived I panicked and rushed it believing I wouldn't meet the deadline for it to be returned and my claim was denied. My symptoms have gotten worse as I have gotten older and I now border on agoraphobia because getting out causes so much anxiety and stress that I have began to stay indoors and avoid the things that trigger me such as busy places, public transport, supermarkets etc. I don't want to miss out on my grandchildren growing up because we have always been so close but my anxiety has become that bad that I feel as though I'm burdening my daughter who has to accompany me to appointments and shopping because I can't do those things alone. I also want to try and gradually get back into some form of work whether it be voluntary or employed. My GP wanted to assess me for ADHD after the Bereavement Counsellor I was having CBT with reached out to him but I still to this date haven't been able to complete the questionnaire he gave me because I find it really difficult speaking about myself that way. I am in contact with Talking Therapies after a referral by my GP and I'm really hoping they can help with coping strategies.
