I had a bit of a hypomanic episode on Tuesday night. I've been trying to avoid caffeine and I had four cups of green tea. Sent me flying. Since I was unable to sleep, I took four Ibuprofen, which eased my symptoms and put me to sleep. I wouldn't recommend this approach unless your physician or psychiatrist has approved you for over the counter medications (mine has).
One of the most important things to do when you are diagnosed as having Bipolar disorder is to apply for Social Security. At Social Security's website, www.socialsecurity.gov, you can apply for both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Any disabled person can apply for SSI, but SSDI is dependent on your work history or your parents' work history if you became disabled before the age of 22.
I recommend applying as soon as you are diagnosed because it takes at least four months to hear back from them on your application. It is a lengthy form online or you can get the form from your local Social Security Office.
In addition, if you are out of work due to a non-industrial illness or injury (such as Bipolar disorder) you can apply for State Disability Insurance (SDI). SDI provides partial wage replacement to eligible workers who are unable to work because of disability. The form for SDI is typically much shorter than the one for Social Security and they start paying you much faster. I applied for SDI and SSDI at the same time.
A number of disabled individuals who apply for Social Security Disability Insurance get rejected the first time they apply. I did not, so I cannot tell you much about the appeal process. I do know individuals who have appealed three times before they were approved. For that story, go to www.sandiegodisabled.webs.com .
If you need help filling out forms, feel free to e-mail me at bipolarfirsthand@yahoo.com .
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