When applying for disability you will need copies of all related medical records as well as a note from your doctor or therapist to confirm your disability. The appropriate forms can be mailed to you and the disability interview can be conducted at your home if necessary. Phone your disability organization for details. In the United States, the national Social Security help line is 1-800-772-1213 and their official web site is http://www.ssa.gov.

Relying on family or friends is sometimes necessary. People often need help getting groceries, getting to doctor or therapist appointments, or even some extra financial assistance or a place to live. Asking for such help can often feel awkward, but it's best to ask for help sooner rather than allow problems to grow and get out of hand.

Manage finances wisely! Even with disability assistance, becoming disabled typically means a dramatic decrease in your budget. You may have to make some difficult lifestyle compromises and give up luxuries you have grown used to. Identify any unnecessary expenses and get rid of them as soon as possible. Chances are you will cling to a luxury or two that is important to your emotional health, but generally try to be very frugal, avoid impulse buying, minimize debt and maintain the best bank balance you can manage. It's hard to give up things we are used to, but financial stress can be even more uncomfortable.

Becoming disabled is NOT an end to your life! Disability and related losses are often extremely distressing and subsequent thoughts of suicide are not uncommon (I know this from experience). There is often an adjustment period, sometimes a long adjustment period, when the future seems very unpromising and not worth the effort. Beyond this, however, new perspectives and new insights can lead to unforeseen opportunities. There are no guarantees, but uncertainty should be given the benefit of the doubt.