Understand SSA’s Definition of Mental Illness

The Social Security Administration lists certain mental health conditions in its Listing of Impairments as qualifying for disability benefits. These conditions include:

• Depression (severe)
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Anxiety disorders (e.g., panic attacks, PTSD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

The SSA requires that your mental illness be severe enough to limit your ability to work and perform basic activities. If you can demonstrate this level of impairment, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)  or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Provide Detailed Medical Evidence

To get disability for mental illness, the most important factor is providing thorough medical documentation. The SSA needs substantial evidence showing that your condition severely impacts your daily life. Here’s what to do:

• See a doctor regularly: Regular visits with a mental health professional (psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist) will help build a comprehensive medical record of your condition.
• Obtain complete medical records: Include detailed notes on your diagnosis, treatment plan, medications, and the impact of your illness on your functioning. Be sure to request records from all treating providers.
• Include assessments and test results: Psychological testing results, such as IQ tests, may be helpful in demonstrating the severity of your condition.
• Have a doctor’s opinion: A letter or statement from your mental health provider describing how your illness affects your ability to work and function daily can significantly strengthen your claim.
  

Complete the Application Accurately

Filling out the Social Security Disability application is crucial for your claim’s success. Be sure to:

• Apply online through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov, or visit your local SSA office.
• Be honest and specific: Provide a detailed account of your mental illness symptoms, work history, and limitations. Avoid omitting important details.
• Include all supporting documents: Along with your medical records, you must submit your work history, financial records, and any other required documents.

The SSA evaluates mental illness claims based on how the condition impairs your ability to work and maintain a functional lifestyle.

Know the SSA’s Five-Step Process

The SSA evaluates your claim using a five-step process, which includes:

• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you are working and earning above a specific income, the SSA may determine you are not disabled.
• Severity of Condition: The SSA looks at whether your mental illness is severe enough to impact your ability to perform basic work activities (e.g., concentrating, interacting with others).
• Listing of Impairments: If your mental illness is listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments and meets the required severity, you may automatically qualify.
• Past Work: The SSA will assess whether your mental illness prevents you from doing your previous work.
• Other Work: If you can’t do your past work, the SSA will evaluate if you can perform any other type of work given your skills, age, and education.

At each step, you must provide substantial medical evidence to show that your mental illness limits your ability to work.

Follow Up and Stay Organized

Once you’ve submitted your application, it’s important to stay organized:

• Create an SSA Online Account: This allows you to track the progress of your application and respond to any requests for additional information.
• Keep copies of all correspondence: Ensure you have records of any communication you’ve had with the SSA, including emails, letters, and documents.
• Respond promptly to SSA requests: If the SSA asks for more information, provide it as quickly as possible to avoid delays.

Be Prepared for a Denial

It’s common for mental illness claims to be denied initially. If this happens to you, don’t get discouraged. You have the right to appeal the decision:

• Request a Reconsideration: This is the first step of the appeal process, where the SSA will review your claim again.
• Request a Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ will review your case and decide whether to approve or deny your claim.
• Gather additional evidence: Use the appeal process as an opportunity to provide new medical records or other documentation that may support your claim.

Consider Working with a Disability Lawyer or Advocate

While you can apply for Social Security Disability on your own, consulting with a disability lawyer or advocate can improve your chances of success:

• Navigating complex regulations: A lawyer or advocate can help you understand the legal requirements and ensure your application is properly filled out.
• Representing you during appeals: If your claim is denied, a lawyer can represent you during hearings and help you build a stronger case.
• Helping with documentation: They can assist in gathering medical evidence and advising you on which documents are most important.

Many disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you win your claim.