How can I appeal a denial for disability benefits for anxiety?

Sufferers of anxiety may be considered for disability benefits if their condition is so disabling that they are not able to function in society. Anxiety may include different conditions and will vary for each individual. While some may suffer panic attacks, others may suffer from an obsessive-compulsive disorder. Below are the major types of anxiety disorders:

• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Panic disorder
• Phobia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder

• Social anxiety disorder

Symptoms

Anxiety attacks are basically episodes of intense panic or fear that often occur suddenly without warning. Although an attack may not last more than 30 minutes, the terror experienced during the attack may be so severe that the sufferer may feel an immediate sense that he or she is about to die or lose control. Other anxiety symptoms:

• Feelings of apprehension or dread
• Trouble concentrating
• Feeling tense and jumpy
• Anticipating the worse
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Watching for signs of danger
• Feeling like your mind has gone blank

Anxiety may bring on physical disorders such as the following:

• Pounding heart
• Sweating
• Stomach upset or dizziness
• Frequent urination or diarrhea
• Shortness of breath
• Tremors and twitches
• Muscle tension
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Insomnia

Receiving Disability Benefits for Anxiety

It is possible for a sufferer to receive disability benefits for mental health conditions if these conditions prevent the person from engaging in gainful employment. He or she must show an inability to perform any any past jobs worked in the last 15 years or any other jobs they were qualified for at the time of applying for benefits. However, a proper diagnosis is crucial to initiate the claim. SSA set specified limits to determine whether the sufferer is eligible to receive disability benefits that apply to both mental and physical conditions.

Denial and Appeal

Most claims for benefits based on a mental disorder are denied due to insufficent medical evidence that proves disability. Not seeing proper specialists, inadequate medical records, or administrative errors on the part of the SSA may be the underlying reason for this determination. To appeal, the claimant must make a written request within 60 days of the date of the denial letter. Levels of appeals may include the following:

1. Reconsideration
2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge
3. Review by the Appeals Council
4. Federal Court

Talk with an experienced attorney to determine your eligibility to receive disability benefits for your anxiety.