You shouldnt feel guilty for applying for benefits that youre (hopefully) entitled too, you said you dont want to believe you are ill, i went through that but acceptance will come it is a journey and often a painful one emotionally. I think it would be good to see your dr regularly so they have s record of your symptoms and know how bad things can be - this will help when benefits team ask for their report .

You need to check with your Doctor and see if you can get some assistant with your
Disability. I know of people that have received financial assistance.
God bless.

Oh golly! I have both of them plus anemia also! I beyond know how you feel! Its so hard and painful having to push yourself to work! I would reccomend essential oils if you do not use them! Also anti inflammatory medicine us helpful for both.

thanks for your answer,
i have letters confirming my diagnosis but the thing is i have not been back to the doctors since it. i don’t really want to believe i have an illness but over the last year things seem to be getting a lot worse and i can’t work. people keep saying i should apply i feel guilty claiming benefits but with not having my wages towards our income it’s starting to be a struggle.
do u think not going to the doctors for a year will go against me on my assessment?

Hi yes i was awarded it - the daily living rate £55 p/w i also got ESA support group whuch was £100-120 pw (though i lost this as now get a works ill health retirement pension) - for PIP & ESA you have to score points on functional ability and/or mobility you need to scoreca certain no. Of points to qualify - ie things you need help with- like bathing/dressing/cooking/household tasks, if you have mobility problems you may score points too.
You need to fill out the form based on your worst days - what you cant do ect. You can get the criteria and how they score it from the internet or disability groups on line or CAB, then you can see how you fit it and if you score enough points. Although they may score you less when they assess, but hopefully not. You need lots of medical evidence and confirmation of your diagnosis - i.e GP/ rheumotologist, physiotherapist/musco skeletal/ pain clinic or pain psychologist
Neurologist if youve seen one.