Pip assessment postponed

Jax1401

Hi, I'm new here and have no idea what to do. I have serious mental health problems dating back to 1992. I've been diagnosed with acute anxiety and severe clinical depression. During the years I've been on and off benefits a few times as when I've felt well I've always gone to work. But I had a huge breakdown last July, during which I self harmed and was treated by paramedics and the crisis team. I have been off work since and I worked 2 part time jobs. I've was awarded LCWRA in February backdated to last September. My psychiatrist advised me to apply for PIP on the grounds that he cannot see my mental health improving in the near future. My first pip phone assessment was a disaster as I couldn't answer them because my son had set my phone to filter calls. They rearranged the assessment but that day the phone literally rang twice and cut off. My health has deteriorated rapidly, recurring self harming being one of the problems I'm trying to overcome. I had my repeat PIP assessment this morning but because I was so anxious and overwrought because I'd missed 2 others, I was in a bit of a state when the call came. The Assessor decided about 5 mins in that I was mentally unable to continue the appointment and said she was cancelling it and that I have to have someone with me for the next appointment. I don't have anyone to be with me. My daughter is in Australia. I don't know what to do and am beside myself with worry for the next assessment. Is there any advice anyone can give me please.
(This was typed by my daughter for me to paste).
Thank
Jacque.

Tori_Scope

Hi @Jax1401  

It sounds like things are really difficult for you at the moment. I've sent you an email from community@scope.org.uk, so please keep an eye out for that and reply when you can.

Have you ever looked into advocacy as an option? Mind have a page on advocacy that you might find helpful to read. Perhaps you could take a look, and let us know what you think? 

 

I'm sorry to hear that you've been struggling with depression, anxiety, and self-harm lately. Are you receiving any support to help you manage your depression and anxiety?

 

I know that you mentioned having spoken to a psychiatrist- are you receiving ongoing support from them? 

 

Are you receiving any support from a community mental health team?

 

You also mentioned that you'd received some support from a crisis team in the past. Are you able to contact them if you need their support?

Please remember that the following organisations are there to support you, should you feel you need someone to listen who won't judge you, or tell you what to do:

• Samaritans: call 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org 
• SHOUT: text SHOUT to 85258 to speak to a volunteer over text message
• CALM: call 0808 800 33 33, or use their live web chat, between 5pm and 12am

You should always call 999 or visit A&E in the case of an emergency.

 

I'm sorry to hear that you've been self-harming again recently. You may find the following resources helpful:

• Calm Harm app
• Self-harm (Mind)

Is anyone in your life aware of your self-harm? I realise that your daughter helped you to write your post on the community. Is she a positive source of support for you, even though she lives abroad?

 

Are you feeling safe at the moment? You mentioned that you self-harmed last July, and ended up receiving some help from the paramedics. Please ensure that you get any self-harm injuries you may have checked out by a medical professional when you can. Is that something you feel able to do?

 

Have you spoken to your GP lately? I'd encourage you to do so if not. 

 

Do you mind me asking whether you live alone at the moment, or whether anyone else lives with you? You mentioned having a son- does he live with you?