Well, I'm 60 and my doc suggests that I have a good chance since I've suffered major depression for well over a year. Yet I'm afraid of applying, afraid of the stigma, and all the hoops you run through. I have been interviewing for jobs all year; will they says I was well enough?

From who? It's nobody's business that you are applying or are on SSDI.
If anyone ask what you do for a living especially at your age, just tell them you are "retired."

Please don't be afraid of applying, or ashamed. If people need help, they deserve help. Would you be ashamed if you were injured in military service, or saving someone from a burning building (okay, extreme example!).

The act of applying fro jobs doesn't necessarily count against you...it shows that you are trying to make the best of your situation but ultimately it can't be counted against you. Now, if you start working full time and make over $1000 a month, this would count against you.

Mz Migraine's suggestion of telling people that you are retired is a great one

The process can be a little overwhelming, but for so many people it's life-changing. If you do decide to apply, ask as many questions as you feel you need to to understand the situations. Ask the forum. It may not be as difficult as you think, and you have nothing to lose by applying.

I agreee, I think applying would be a good decision. The sooner the better...I wated for a few years before I decided that applying would be the best decisin for me.
Good luck to you qand keep us posted! This is an awesome sight for support through your whole process!!!!!!!

Fortunately, my SSDI application went through the first time. I do feel a stigma associated with being on it because my condition is mental and not visible to outsiders. If I had a physical disability that was obvious to others, I don't think I would feel this way. I am thankful for the SSDI coverage, just stating my feelings. Good luck to those of you that are still in the application process or the appeal process.