My daughter husband to be passed away. And she has become very depressed and can not work due to his death a year ago. She has had a nervous break down. And her children are not his. She was working at a very good job. She still has no insurance for medical and cries all the time. Can not sleep. Was seeing a theropist. How do we get her on Disability? Thank You. -Kay

Jonathan replies: Kay I am sorry to hear that your daughter has had such a rough time. For those who have not experienced depression themselves or seen what it can do, depression can turn your world upside down.

The first thing your daughter needs to do is to file her claim for SSDI disability. She can do that by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213.

Secondly, both of you need to be aware that her chances at winning will be much greater if she has an on-going treatment record from a treating psychologist or psychiatrist, and, even better, a treating doctor who will complete a functional capacity form detailing the specific work limitations arising from her depression.

Please stay on her to file her papers timely and to respond to any appeal deadlines. For the initial application and reconsideration levels, you may find my Disability Answer Guide helpful. If you feel that you need a lawyer to help with the paperwork, you can get a qualified disability lawyer referral by clicking on the link.

Good luck to both of you in this difficult time.

–Jonathan