While the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers national programs to provide benefits to those unable to work, it can be challenging to get a disability claim approved when it is solely or mostly related to a mental health condition.  Most individuals who suffer from depression or anxiety know that it can be very difficult to convince others that one cannot simply “get over it.”  Social Security claimants may find the same attitudes in disability claims examiners and Judges.  When you or a loved one seeks disability benefits from the Social Security Administration, based solely, or partly, on a severe mental health condition, you may need the  assistance of an experienced disability attorney.  The following information should also help you when applying for these benefits. 

What Mental Health Symptoms Qualify for Social Security Benefits?

The list of diseases and conditions which qualify people for Social Security disability benefits and SSI is exhaustive and includes mental disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, mental retardation and autism spectrum disorder.  While the Social Security administration will assist in gathering your medical records, individuals seeking these benefits must prove that their mental health condition(s) is/are so severe that it meets or equals one of the administrations “listings” or that the condition prevents the person from performing certain work. The claimant should be diagnosed by a doctor and should ideally have a relationship with that doctor such that he or she is willing to state an opinion, in writing, concerning the difficulties which are caused by the disease or disorder.

Why Are Disability Claims Often Hard to Win?

It can be challenging to show how a mental illness significantly impacts a person’s life. A significant part of many mental health claims depends on subjective evidence. If you can’t convince the SSA that your psychological condition severely affects your ability to work, your application will probably be denied. As much as possible, your medical records should accurately convey your experiences with your mental illness. Your attorney can also advise you on whether it would help to ask your employer or a close friend to write a letter on your behalf detailing the effects of a mental condition on your life.

How Do You Go About the Disability Claims Process?

Once you are ready, you can apply for disability benefits online at ssa.gov.  You can also make an appointment at your local district office of the Social Security Administration, where a disability examiner will review and accept your application.   If you get denied, you have the option to file an appeal or drop your case altogether. We find that those with mental health disorders, especially, get discouraged by a denial.  Some even give the matter up entirely.  But many claimants who are initially denied will ultimately be approved in the later phases of the process.  We recommend getting the expert assistance of an experienced disability attorney.   These legal professionals can help you get approved.

A qualified Social Security Disability attorney like Patton & Hyder PLLC in Crossville, TN, can offer you sound legal advice to help you obtain the benefits you deserve. Their professional and caring staff take a personal interest in your case and will ensure that you receive the judgment or co compensation that you deserve. They can also represent you for disability claims, property & real estate law, wrongful death, criminal defense, personal injury, and other legal practice areas. Call them today at (931) 787-1333 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to meet the team.