Millions of Americans suffer from debilitating symptoms of depression and anxiety. While individuals with milder cases may have their capacity to work largely unaffected, severe cases can make it impossible to focus, interact with people, or even leave the house. If you have depression or anxiety that prevents you from working, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
SSDI & Depression and Anxiety Disability Claims
SSDI is very specific when it comes to qualification. Your depression and/or anxiety must be severe enough to prevent the performance of basic work tasks. You must be able to demonstrate to the Social Security Administration (SSA) that you have a serious limitation in one or more of the following categories:
- Understanding or remembering new information
- Interacting with other people
- Concentrating on tasks
- Adapting to basic life skills
Like all SSDI claims, your doctor’s records and statements on your behalf will be vital to demonstrate the severity of your condition. Be prepared to produce medical and psychological records and, in some cases, a detailed, personal account of your symptoms. Suppose your depression or anxiety is deemed not severe enough to warrant SSDI benefits independently. In that case, they can still factor in your symptoms as part of a claim regarding another mental or physical health condition.
However, it is worth noting that even as instances of depression and anxiety rise nationally, the SSA is becoming more selective in the applications they approve as budgets tighten and the need grows. A qualified Social Security claims attorney can help advise in the event of initial rejection.
Social Security Disability Attorneys for Eugene and Albany
The attorneys of Drew L. Johnson, P.C. Attorneys at Law have over 40 years of experience helping Oregonians cut through the red tape to get the Social Security disability benefits they deserve. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, or any other medical condition that makes it impossible for you to work, you’re not alone. We’ll help you successfully navigate the Social Security application process or apply for a reconsideration of a rejected application.
Call (541) 434-6466 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Social Security disability attorney today.
