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Brain fog and cognitive decline interfering with applying for government assistance

Does anyone else get brain fog and cognitive decline to the point where they find it difficult to go through the entire process of filling out applications and gathering documents and submitting them to government agencies for assistance such as food stamps or Medicaid or energy assistance because they're unable to work due to their condition? I'm not eligible for disability because I don't go to the doctor for my multiple sclerosis anymore. Theoretically I qualify completely for disability based on my mental health because I do have that treated several times a week but I experienced so much brain fog and cognitive issues that seemed to just get worse every week that I find it almost impossible to complete these application processes. I used to be a teacher I used to do taxes for my friends and relatives, I used to be very good at forms and bureaucracy and government vernacular and I have a master's degree in education so I'm not uneducated but it just seems that my brain has turned absolute mush and I can't get these applications and associated paperwork and letters and all the stuff they ask for submitted and wind up getting denied for any benefits. It's just so overwhelming but I feel incredibly guilty because my parents are supporting me even though I'm 39 years old so every time I fail to get a government benefit it's just one more thing my parents have to pay for that they shouldn't have to pay for to begin with. I have used Case Management services in the past but have had no success with them at all because they basically just encouraged me to do the process myself but don't actually assist me in any of the steps other than to try to motivate me which is nice of them but ineffective because motivation is not the issue, racing and confused thoughts and a lack of comprehension of the language used on the application and instructions are my main issues. Has anyone come across this and found a solution?

  1. Hi, !


    I am sorry you are in this situation and that Case Management hasn't been more helpful. Many folks have recommended hiring a disability lawyer that is well versed in SSDI for situations like yours. Generally, the amount they charge is capped and is not exorbitant and may well be worth it if you get approved. Here's some basics on the process, of which you may already be aware -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/resources-ssdi. And here's some helpful information from one of our contributors for a sister site on the application process -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/understanding-application-process-social-security-disability-benefits. And here's some input on what to do if your claim is denied (this article discusses legal representation a bit more) -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/appeal-ssdi-denial. I hope this helps and that you are able to get your application filed!


    Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.

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