The word the whole scale turns on
Read the DC 8100 criteria closely and one word does most of the work. The 10% and 30% levels both require characteristic prostrating attacks; the 50% level requires completely prostrating attacks. The schedule states the word without adding a separate definition, so the evidence has to show what the word describes.
In plain terms, a prostrating attack is one that stops you: you have to stop what you are doing and rest until it passes. A headache you can work through, however painful, does not match that description. When you describe your attacks — in a statement, a log, or an exam — describe what an attack actually does, not only that it hurt.
What separates 30% from 50%
Four elements change between the two levels, and a record aimed at the higher level has to speak to each of them:
- Frequency: on an average once a month (30%) versus very frequent (50%)
- Completeness: prostrating (30%) versus completely prostrating (50%)
- Duration: the 50% criterion adds prolonged
- Consequence: only the 50% criterion requires that the attacks be productive of severe economic inadaptability
Document the attack, not just the diagnosis
A diagnosis alone does not show frequency or prostration. The record that answers the criteria is built attack by attack: dates, duration, what you had to stop doing, and the effect on work, recorded close to when each attack happened.
Statements from a spouse, family member, or co-worker can add what they observed — that you left work, went to a dark room, or could not drive. Keep those observations factual and specific, in the same way the evidence checklist guide recommends for any firsthand statement.
Attack-log template: the prostrating record
For each attack, record the details that map to the criteria: frequency, whether the attack prostrated you, how long it lasted, and what it cost your day. Print this page and keep it with your log, or copy the fields into a notes app.