Preparing for an SSDI Hearing with Schizophrenia: Tips for Applicants and Caregivers

Reviewed by Gretchen Johnson, J.D., LL.M.

Hearings can feel stressful. A little planning goes a long way, for you and your family.

What might the judge ask?

• What symptoms do you have now?
• How does medicine help, and what side effects come with it?
• Who helps you day to day?

Any tips for me?

• It's fine to say "I don't remember"
• Ask for a question to be repeated
• Take a break if you need one

Any tips for caregivers?

• Be ready to describe what you see each day
• Bring a list of hospital stays and medicine changes