Step 1: Understand the Types of Mental Disabilities That Qualify

The SSA recognizes a wide range of mental health conditions as qualifying for disability benefits. The key is demonstrating how your mental health disorder significantly limits your ability to function in daily life and work. Some examples of qualifying mental disabilities include:

• Depressive disorders (e.g., major depressive disorder)
• Anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder)
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Intellectual disability and related developmental disorders

The SSA evaluates mental disabilities under the Mental Disorders section of its Listing of Impairments. To be eligible, your condition must meet the SSA's criteria for severity and duration.

Step 2: Check Eligibility for SSDI or SSI

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. You must also have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): SSI is a need-based program for individuals with low income and limited resources. SSI does not require a work history, so it may be available if you have a mental health condition and lack sufficient income or resources.

Step 3: Gather Medical Documentation

One of the most important aspects of your application will be providing medical evidence to support your claim. This is especially critical for mental disabilities, as it can sometimes be more difficult to objectively measure the severity of the condition.

Here’s how to prepare the necessary documentation:

• Visit your healthcare provider regularly: You need to see your doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist regularly to build a consistent medical record. Keep track of your appointments and follow any treatment plans.
• Obtain comprehensive medical records: Include therapy notes, psychiatric evaluations, medication history, hospital records, and any psychological testing that demonstrates the severity of your condition.
• Statements from mental health professionals: Ask your psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist to write a detailed letter explaining how your condition limits your ability to work and function in everyday life.
• Functional limitations: The SSA will want to know how your mental condition impacts your ability to work. This includes any difficulty concentrating, following instructions, maintaining relationships, or completing tasks. Be sure to include detailed examples in your records.

Step 4: Apply for Disability Benefits

Once you have gathered your medical documentation, you can apply for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration. The process can be done online, over the phone, or in person.

A. Online Application

The easiest way to apply for SSDI or SSI is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. Make sure to have your medical, work history, and financial information ready.

B. By Phone

You can also apply by phone by calling the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will assist you with the application process.

C. In Person

If you prefer, you can apply in person by visiting your local Social Security office. Use the SSA office locator at www.ssa.gov/locator to find the nearest office.

During the application process, be prepared to answer questions about:

• Your work history and previous jobs.
• Your medical condition, including treatment and therapy.
• How your mental disability affects your daily activities.

Step 5: Understand the SSA's Evaluation Process for Mental Disabilities

When evaluating mental health disabilities, the SSA uses a Five-Step Sequential Evaluation Process. The steps are as follows:

• Are you working? If you are engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) (earning more than $1,470 per month in 2025), you will not be considered disabled.
• Is your condition severe? Your condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities, such as concentrating, communicating, and performing physical tasks.
• Does your condition meet or equal a Listing? The SSA has a Listing of Mental Disorders, and your condition must meet the specific criteria listed. If it doesn’t, the SSA will proceed to step 4.
• Can you do your past work? The SSA will assess whether you can still perform the work you did before your disability. If not, they will proceed to step 5.
• Can you do any other type of work? If you cannot perform your past work, the SSA will determine whether there are other types of work you can do based on your skills, education, and age. If not, you will be approved for benefits.

Step 6: Appeal if Your Claim Is Denied

It’s not uncommon for disability claims to be initially denied, even for individuals with legitimate mental health disabilities. If your claim is denied, you can file an appeal. The appeals process involves several steps:

• Request a Reconsideration: If you receive a denial letter, you have 60 days to request a reconsideration, which is a review of your case by someone who did not make the original decision.
• Request a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). During the hearing, you can present additional evidence and testify about your condition.
• Appeal to the Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council for further review.

It is important to have all your medical records in order and be ready to show how your mental health condition impairs your ability to work.