Hello (again)...

I have another question in connection with the B&W IB50 incapacity for work guidance...

I have been diagnosed with CFS/ME. So far as I am aware I have not been formally diagnosed with a mental health condition, and this is the correct procedure given that the WHO classifies CFS/ME as a neurological condition. Therefore is it necessary to get a formal mental health diagnosis in order that the mental health test may be applied in recognition of symptoms such as concentration problems and mental fatigue etc? Or, in the case of CFS/ME will the decision maker automatically apply the mental health test as part of the assessment?

Thanks,

Hendrix

Hi Hendrix,

The DWP's current position seems to be that CFS/ME can have both physical and mental aspects, so both tests should be carried out.

This is the current DWP guidance on whether CFS/ME is a physical or mental health condition in relation to DLA.

If you do have a separate mental health condition, such as depression, however, then it would certainly be worth getting a diagnosis from your GP.

Good luck,

Steve

Thanks for all your help Steve

I just thought that I would mention that the DWP are not consistent in there defenition of CFS/ME, in relation to claiming benefit see: ME/CFS benefits discrimination p3 under Members forum). I have had ME/CFS for a number of years in the past, and the best approach to adopt is to go with the depression, tired diagnosis, unless you can obtain test results that can back up you claim that you have ME/CFS. You should be aware that you doctor might not even be aware of any tests that need to be carried out.

Hi Fred

I have had 3 diagnosis of me/cfs now, the first in 91 as PVFS, I still (sort of) managed to work until 99 then was dx again with ME in 2002 and in 2005 when the new clinics came about was dx yet again, no one seems to have any answers though. I am going to put on my claim form that I have anxiety and depression also, do you think this will harm my claim ? thanks

anne

I think it is best to leave out CFS/ME and just go with depression tired, loss of concentration, difficulty moving, etc. If you include CFS/ME they might think that your other conditions are made up.