sbella, as uncomfortable and embarrassing as it may be, if you are filing for depression, having a breakdown at the hearing will just prove what is going on with you. You don't want to say you're having a hard time coping, can't remember things, then appear to be perfectly organized and capable in front of the judge. Just be yourself, acting your normal way. Don't try to pretend to be better or worse than you actually are. I didn't take a paper to my hearing, but the way the judge asked the questions, I could answer. But I cried or had a quavery voice the whole time, had a hard time finding words, and even though I am well trained in a highly technical job, with skills that are easily transferable, it was obvious my mental state was not conducive to me working. I was terrified that I wouldn't be able to converse at all. Having an attorney helped me, knowing that if I got totally confused, he could explain things to the judge. I would rather have an attorney who has access to all my records and knows what is important to a disability case, than a friend or family, since I try so hard to "pretend" to be ok around them, and they are not fully aware of my medical issues, and the hoops I go through mentally just to cope with a "normal" day. Good luck!