Depression and panic disorders can have a debilitating impact upon the lives of sufferers. If you are inflicted with such disorders to the point where you have difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around, then you could be eligible for financial help from the government.
The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) offers Personal Independence Payments (PIP) to those people in the UK suffering from long-term physical or mental health conditions or disabilities. The payment is to provide help with extra living costs.
PIP is usually paid every four weeks unless you are terminally ill, in which case it is paid weekly, and is paid directly into your bank, building society or credit union account. It can be worth up to £156.90 a week tax free and can be claimed even if you are working, have savings or are getting most other benefits. However, there are strict rules and criteria around receiving the benefit.