Disability For Anxiety and Depression

As with most issues regarding eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits, the decision regarding your eligibility depends directly on your circumstances, and on whether or not you meet certain criteria. In cases of anxiety disorders or depression, most initial claims are denied until proven, because of both the amount of claims made on this basis and because of the different circumstances for each person. There are a number of questions you must be able to answer before your claim for Social Security benefits will be granted.

Your Diagnosis

One of the most important factors in your case for benefits is your personal diagnosis:

• You must have documentation from a medical professional stating that you have been diagnosed as clinically depressed or having an anxiety disorder.
• For you to be eligible for disability benefits, one or both of these diagnoses must either be on the Social Security Administration’s “List of Impairments” or equivalent to a diagnosis that is.
• If you have documentation from either your doctor or any other medical professional, make sure to be able to provide it to the administration to help them establish your medical state.

Current Employment

Most likely the first question you will be asked once your diagnosis has been established is whether or not you are currently employed. If you are able to perform even menial job tasks, in most cases your request for benefits will be denied, as being gainfully employed is typically considered equal to not being disabled.

Former Employment

If you are not currently employed, you will have to be able to provide your employment history. This will be brought into question as a means of determining whether or not you are physically and mentally capable of performing the tasks and requirements of your last or prior job. You will also be evaluated at this point to determine whether or not you are fit to perform any other line of work, no matter skilled or unskilled, at any rate of pay.

Documented Limitations

Another issue the Social Security Administration takes into consideration when processing an application for benefits on grounds of depression or anxiety is your documented limitations. Your doctor’s notes may not be enough to persuade the administration that you have limited abilities due to your condition, so it is advisable that you ask your doctor to refer you to a licensed mental health professional. A diagnosis of your social limitations from a psychotherapist can greatly increase your odds of filing a successful claim.

Getting Help

An experienced disability attorney can help you to make your claim for benefits with the SSA. Your attorney can assist you in making sure you provide the SSA with all the information they may need to approve your claim.