So - he had the MRI and everything was fine with that. The anxiety and panic attacks remain. Finally had his dr. appt. today with the psych who immediatly put him out on disability because, to quote the doctor, it's actually going to physically kill him if he keeps this up.

So - this is good and bad. Haven't quite decided.

I'm concerned over medical insurance though, among other things.

All this while trying to find a house to buy too.

It's all upsetting my stomach and giving *me* anxiety!!!

If his disability becomes permanent (as far as working that is) you can expect:

1) To hire a disability lawyer. SSI will deny his benifits. My wife and I found this out the hard way. We fought them on it for nearly a year, then after getting the lawyer it was at least 6 months later before we saw any money. But with out the lawyer we never would have seen a penny.

2) Expect to only get 50% of his normal income. This is important when figuring what you can pay for a house payment.

If it is temporary or permanent you will need:

3) To become extremely patient and supportive. It's a long road, but still a worth while trip. Counseling and proper meds takes time, but can help so much. Keep in mind there will be times when things don't look rosey, but those are fleeting.

4) Plenty of friends and family to talk to and unload. And that's what we are hear for as well.

Good luck,

and hugs

{{{{{Betty & Hubby}}}}}}