Worrying about my telephone assessment

smitch101

Really worrying and anxious about my pip phone assessment next week.

Tori_Scope

Hi @smitch101 I'm sorry to hear you're so worried about your telephone assessment. Many people feel anxious in the lead up, so you're certainly not alone in how you're feeling!

Is there anything in particular that's making you feel nervous about it? 

smitch101

It's taken me a long time to apply, frightened of showing what I go through when I'm at my lowest, thinking they (people in authority) won't believe me 

Tori_Scope

That's understandable @smitch101. The assessor should be polite and treat you with respect, and allow you to take your time when answering difficult questions. You can tell them if you need a minute to think about your answer, or to collect your thoughts if you've shared something upsetting. Having a drink of water and a snack with you is also a good idea, as well as ensuring your phone is fully charged. 

Do you have a friend or family member who could be with you during the call, if that's something you'd find helpful?

smitch101

Yes my daughter will be with me 

Tori_Scope

That's good @smitch101 Did you keep a copy of your forms?

smitch101

Yes they are saved on my laptop

Kendo861

Hi @smitch101 ,I felt exactly like you but try and stay calm, hopefully your asessor will be like mine and make you feel comfortable,and I found it ok,mine lasted 45 minutes,just try to tell them as it is@kendo861

Tori_Scope

Great @smitch101 Some people find it helpful to read over their forms before the call, and jot down anything they particularly want to bring up or remember to mention. Do you think that could help settle your nerves a bit? 

smitch101

Yes I forgot that, thank you 

smitch101

Just an update, my assessment went well. I had my son with me who was able to mention things that I didn't think of as he's sees my illness/disability from a different perspective and explained my difficulties much more in depth than I could.   I have been awarded both sections of pip.  I have now received a blue badge which I was able to use for the first time today, and it was so much easier not to have the extra worry of longer walking, avoiding stairs etc or just finding somewhere to rest whilst someone brings the car. 
It is worth while going through the assessment, keep strong and be clear on how your disability affects your health. 

Tori_Scope

Thank you for the update @smitch101! That sounds like good news I'm sure that it'll help other members to feel more positive. 

Will you be doing anything this weekend to help you relax, as I can imagine that this has taken a weight off of your mind.

smitch101

I'm not doing anything in particular but just being able to sit in the garden without the constant propping/busiest of my mind doing overtime will be just fine 😌 

Tori_Scope

That sounds lovely @smitch101 What's the weather like where you are?