Physical Disabilities

Physical disabilities can significantly impair your ability to perform daily activities or work-related tasks. Some common physical conditions that may qualify for Social Security Disability include:

• Musculoskeletal Disorders:
  Conditions like arthritis, back pain, and spinal disorders can make it difficult to sit, stand, or perform basic work functions.
  Examples:
• Osteoarthritis
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Scoliosis
• Fibromyalgia

• Cardiovascular Disorders:
  Heart conditions and other cardiovascular issues can limit your ability to engage in physical activities.
  Examples:
• Chronic Heart Failure
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Heart Attacks
• Arrhythmias

• Respiratory Disorders:
  Chronic lung diseases can prevent you from performing tasks that require physical exertion.
  Examples:
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Emphysema
• Asthma
• Pulmonary Fibrosis

• Neurological Disorders:
  Conditions affecting the nervous system can lead to problems with movement, coordination, and mental function.
  Examples:
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Epilepsy
• Severe Head Injuries

• Cancer:
  If you have cancer and it affects your ability to work, you may qualify for disability benefits.
  Examples:
• Lung Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Leukemia
• Colon Cancer

Mental Health Disabilities

Mental health disorders can also qualify for Social Security Disability benefits if they are severe enough to impact your ability to work and function in daily life. Some common mental health conditions that may qualify include:

• Depression and Mood Disorders:
  Chronic depression and other mood disorders can make it difficult to engage in social interactions or maintain consistent work.
  Examples:
• Major Depressive Disorder
• Bipolar Disorder

• Anxiety Disorders:
  Severe anxiety can interfere with daily activities, work performance, and social interactions.
  Examples:
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Psychotic Disorders:
  Conditions such as schizophrenia can impair thinking, emotional regulation, and behavior.
  Examples:
• Schizophrenia
• Schizoaffective Disorder

• Cognitive Impairments:
  Some mental impairments can significantly limit cognitive abilities, such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving.
  Examples:
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Dementia
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. Many of these conditions can be severe and debilitating, making it difficult to work.

Examples:

• Lupus
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Crohn’s Disease
• HIV/AIDS (if it causes severe complications)

Sensory Impairments

Disabilities affecting the senses, such as hearing or vision, may also qualify for Social Security Disability if they significantly affect your ability to work.

Examples:

• Blindness
• Severe Hearing Loss
• Retinal Diseases
• Macular Degeneration

Rare and Genetic Disorders

Certain rare or genetic disorders may qualify if they result in long-term disability. The SSA has a Listing of Impairments (Blue Book) that outlines specific medical conditions that may qualify you for benefits.

Examples:

• Cystic Fibrosis
• Huntington’s Disease
• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
• Tay-Sachs Disease