How do I document my PTSD in order to get Social Security benefits?

Post traumatic stress can in certain instances give rise to a social security disability insurance (SSDI) claim. However, there are a few specific requirements that must be met in order to successfully make a claim based on PTSD. These requirements center around making sure that you really are sufficiently disabled in order to receive benefits. The main things you will need to prove in order to receive SSDI benefits based on PTSD are that:

• Your PTSD is a long term disability. No short term disabilities are covered- unless the condition is long term or expected to be a terminal illness, SSDI benefits will not be available
• Your PTSD makes it impossible for you to work or hold down any sort of job
• Your PTSD has had a serious and marked impact on your life.

To prove that your PTSD is sufficiently serious to qualify for benefits, you will need to submit a myriad of different types of evidence related to your condition. A statement from a psychiatrist and/or psychologist is, of course, essential. The statement will have to explain what your diagnosis is and how and why it impairs you and makes it impossible to work. You'll also need other information, like details about when you have flashbacks, panic attacks or other adverse affects because of your PTSD. Records of attempted treatments may also be helpful. 

In order to get help collecting the evidence you need to document your PTSD, you should strongly consider consulting with an experienced lawyer who handles disability rights claims in your area.