Understand the SSA’s Definition of Disability

The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability as an inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a medical condition that has lasted (or is expected to last) at least 12 months or will result in death. For mental disabilities, the SSA evaluates the severity of your condition and how it impacts your ability to perform basic work activities.

Obtain Medical Documentation

To prove a mental disability, the most important step is providing thorough and accurate medical documentation. Here’s what you need to gather:

• Medical Records: Provide all available mental health records, including doctor’s notes, hospital records, therapy notes, prescription records, and any documentation of past treatments related to your mental health condition.
• Diagnosis and Treatment History: Make sure you have a diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. You will also need to provide a record of treatments, such as therapy, medications, or inpatient hospitalizations, and how they have impacted your condition.
• Functional Limitations: The SSA is not only interested in your diagnosis but also in how your mental health condition affects your ability to work. Your medical records should show how your condition limits your ability to perform daily tasks, interact with others, and concentrate.
• Specialist Opinions: If you have seen specialists, such as a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, or mental health counselor, their opinions and records are also crucial in proving the extent of your disability.

Provide Statements from Treating Doctors and Therapists

A letter from your treating doctor or mental health professional can be invaluable in supporting your case. This letter should clearly explain:

• Your Diagnosis: What mental health condition(s) you have been diagnosed with.
• Your Symptoms: A detailed description of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life and work performance.
• Treatment History: The types of treatments you've received (e.g., therapy, medication) and whether these treatments have improved your condition or have been ineffective.
• Work Limitations: How your mental condition affects your ability to perform work-related tasks, such as concentrating, interacting with coworkers, following instructions, or maintaining regular attendance.

Use the SSA’s “Listing of Impairments”

The SSA has a Listing of Impairments, which includes mental health conditions that may automatically qualify you for disability benefits if you meet the specific criteria. For mental disabilities, the relevant listings include:

• Depressive, Bipolar, and Related Disorders
• Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders
• Intellectual Disorders
• Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders
• Autism Spectrum Disorders

Each listing has specific criteria, such as functional limitations, to be met for approval. To prove your eligibility, you must show that your condition meets or equals the criteria in the Listing of Impairments.

Show the Impact of Your Condition on Daily Life and Work

It’s not enough to show that you have a diagnosis—you must demonstrate that your condition severely limits your ability to perform basic work activities. To strengthen your case, include evidence of:

• Daily Limitations: Show how your mental disability affects your ability to perform everyday tasks such as eating, dressing, maintaining personal hygiene, or managing finances.
• Work Limitations: Provide evidence that your condition prevents you from doing any type of work. This might include difficulties with concentration, memory, social interactions, or following instructions. It’s helpful to have statements from previous employers, family members, or coworkers about how your mental disability has affected your work life.

Document Your Work History and Efforts to Work

If you’ve attempted to work despite your mental disability, document these efforts. Show how your condition has made it impossible for you to continue working. Even if you have worked part-time or attempted to hold down a job, the SSA will consider your work history in evaluating your claim.

Provide a Comprehensive Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment

An RFC assessment is an evaluation by a medical professional that outlines the specific mental limitations you face due to your condition. This assessment is essential to show how your mental health condition affects your ability to perform work-related tasks. Your RFC should include information on:

• Your ability to concentrate
• Your ability to complete tasks in a timely manner
• Your ability to interact with others
• Your ability to manage stress
• Whether you can follow complex instructions

This comprehensive assessment from your doctor or therapist is vital for demonstrating the severity of your mental disability.