Social Security Disability Benefits and Mental Health

On This Page

1. Getting SSD or SSI for Mental Health Conditions: What Evidence Is Needed

REVIEWED BY

C. William Kenny

October 10, 2023

Board certified by National Board of Trial Advocacy

Getting SSD or SSI for Mental Health Conditions: What Evidence Is Needed

The Social Security Disability (SSD) program is a lifeline for individuals who are unable to work due to disabilities. While many people associate disability with physical impairments, it is important to understand that SSD benefits are also available for those suffering from mental health conditions. In this blog post, we will discuss the eligibility criteria for receiving SSD benefits for mental health conditions and the type of evidence needed to support your claim.

Eligibility for SSD Benefits for Mental Health Conditions

To be eligible for SSD benefits based on a mental health condition, you must meet specific criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This includes:

1. Severe Impairment: You must prove that your mental health condition is severe enough to prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity. In other words, it should significantly hinder your ability to work.
2. Duration: Your mental health condition should be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in your death.
3. Meeting a Listed Condition: The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments that includes specific mental health disorders. If your condition meets or equals the criteria listed, you are more likely to be approved for SSD benefits. If not, you can still qualify by showing that your condition is equal in severity to a listed impairment.
4. Inability to Perform Past Work: You must demonstrate that you cannot perform the work you did before your mental health condition became disabling.
5. Inability to Perform Any Work: The SSA will assess whether you can adjust to other work considering your age, education and work experience. If you are unable to adapt to any work, you may be eligible for benefits.

Evidence Required for a Mental Health SSD Claim

The key to a successful SSD claim for mental health conditions is providing evidence that demonstrates the severity of your impairment. Here are some essential types of evidence to support your claim:

• Medical Records: Detailed medical records from mental health professionals are critical. These should include psychiatric evaluations, clinical assessments, treatment plans and progress notes.
• Documentation of Symptoms: Thoroughly document your mental health symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, hallucinations or mood disturbances. Explain how these symptoms affect your daily life and work.
• Medication and Treatment History: Maintain a record of all medications, therapies and treatments you have received.
• Statements from Mental Health Professionals: Statements from your treating mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists or therapists, can carry significant weight in your claim. Their opinions on your condition’s severity and limitations are crucial.
• Work History: A detailed work history can help the SSA assess your ability to perform past work. Highlight how your condition has impacted your job performance.
• Records of Hospitalizations: If you have been hospitalized for your mental health condition, provide records of these stays, as they can illustrate the severity of your impairment.
• Evidence of Failed Work Attempts: If you attempted to work despite your mental health condition but were unsuccessful, document these attempts as evidence of your inability to perform substantial gainful activity.

Receiving disability benefits for mental health conditions is possible, but it requires careful preparation and extensive evidence. To ensure the best chance of approval, consult with a Social Security Disability Attorney. They can help you gather the necessary documentation and guide you through the complex application or appeals process. Contact the attorneys of Berger and Green today for your free case evaluation.