Are you applying for SSDI for a mental health disability? You might be surprised to learn that your diagnosis is not nearly as important as how your disability affects your capacity to do work.
Qualifying Mental Disorders
The category of mental disorders encompasses a wide range of disabilities, including:
- Bipolar disorder
- Mood disorders
- Mental retardation
- Anxiety disorders
- Personality disorders
- Substance abuse
- Autism
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Depression
- Sleep disorders
- Eating disorders
- Identity disorders
- Psychotic disorders
- Unexplained physical symptoms
Further Requirements For SSDI Benefits
To be considered eligible for SSDI benefits you must be diagnosed with a severe mental health condition, and all of the following must be true:
- The condition or its effects must keep you from working for pay.
- The condition must be expected to last at least one year
But, this isn’t enough. More than three-quarters of those who apply for SSDI are denied because they cannot adequately document how their disability affects daily living and prevents them from finding substantial employment. You need medical records and other documents to back up your claim. Learn more about documentation in our article, “Documenting Functional Limitations for your SSDI Mental Illness Claim.”
Start Your Disability Application With Us
A Massachusetts disability lawyer can help you get the documentation needed to support your SSDI claim and walk you through the application process one step at a time.
If you were denied SSDI benefits, don’t give up. Our Massachusetts disability attorneys can help. Contact Keefe Disability Law at 888-904-6847 to schedule a free consultation or request a free copy of John Keefe's free book Unlocking the Mystery – The Essential Guide for Navigating the Social Security Disability Claims Process.
Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?
If you are looking to apply for social security disability, you need to speak with an experienced social security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 508.283.5500 to schedule your free consultation.
