I was also told that I was too educated and professional to get disability. That is why it is imperative to get an attorney. If you did not have an attorney for the first filing, then definitely get one for the appeal.

I had a strong work history so I'd accrued points for that....I was 32 when I initially filed..I was approved by my 38th birthday..I used a company that did all the work for me..and I was approved 5 months after the hearing before the judge..I also have osteoarthritis, and mood disorder. Hope this helps.

The first filing for dss is almost always denied. Mine was accepted on the first video conference with a judge. I was not dx yet with fm. I have a huge list of other symptoms that was turning into fm also. The fm dx came after the approval for disability. I had a lawyer. Having moral support when stressing and going into fibro fog is the best! I went to the conference without any medication in my system. I wanted everyone to see what I'm really like anymore. I'm in MI. Erika Riggs from the Disability Attorneys of Michigan was my lawyer. I sincerely wish I hadn't waited as long as I did to file. By the time you get through the preparations, a lot of time has passed by.

I received my disability when I was 45 years old. I was getting ready to have surgery in the lower lumbar region of my back.
When I went for my first visit with the neurosurgeon he explained to me that I had fibromyalgia. He also let me know that I should file for SSDI, because, with all of my health issues, he didn't think that I would be able to carry out my career objectives.
I applied for disability in June of 2008, and I received an award letter in September of 2008.
I used an attorney throughout the process. He took care of gathering all of my medical records, work duties, etc... .
I was told that in order to receive disability in a timely manner that one must have:
A specifically stated diagnosis. Medical records must say that you have a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, your symptoms must be clearly spelled out, and it helps to have a record of missed work that is clearly documented.
I was also helped by the fact the my employer's short term disability carrier wrote that I could no longer fulfill my job duties as required.
I certainly hope that this helps people. My number 1 bit of advice is GET AN ATTORNEY.

Yes. I was approved in less than four months. The smartest thing that you can do is get a very good attorney to file the paperwork for you.
Also, make sure that you any and all diagnoses are documented in your medical records.