There are many who think that everyone who files for Social Security disability benefits could really work if they wanted unless they were “truly disabled” by which they sort of mean “in a comma.” This leads to many disabled people feeling ashamed of themselves for being disabled. They think others will look down on them if they know about their disability. It feels to them like their disability is a personal failure.
This shame at being disabled has several bad effects. Disabled individuals suffer from inappropriate guilt and depression. They con themselves into believing that recovery from disability is right around the corner. They delay filing a claim for Social Security disability benefits because they believe that would be the admission of a personal failing. Often they fail to act until they’re literally homeless.
Please accept that disability is a real thing. Your disability probably isn’t going away. If you think that others will judge you harshly because you apply for Social Security disability, they’re not going to know unless you tell them. Social Security isn’t going to tell them. In the end, what do you care what other people think? Get over it! Do what you need to do! How is being homeless less shameful than filing a claim for Social Security disability benefits?
On a selfish basis, it’s stressful dealing with desperate clients. They wait until they’re about to be homeless before they file for Social Security disability benefits. They can’t believe how long it takes to get a favorable decision from Social Security. Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy to see you if you’ve waited this long but be realistic. If you’ve been out of work due to illness or injury for more than about six months, you’re not likely to be able to get back to doing enough work to support yourself. Do what you have to do.
If you’re in NC and want help with your Social Security disability claim, call Hall & Rouse, P.C. at 1-866-425-5347
