The Social Security Disability and SSI Process for Mental Claims based on Mental Disordersfiling for disability). And very often, a claim will be filed on the basis of having both mental and physical conditions (depression and degenerative disc disease, for example). However, whether a claim is filed on the basis of a mental condition alone, or in combination with several other mental or physical conditions, the process is the same. At the disability application and reconsideration appeal levels, the disability examiner who is determining the outcome of the claim will do the following: 1. The disability examiner will Send MER letters to every single treatment source listed by the claimant at the time they have filed a claim. MER stands for medical evidence of record. The examiner will attempt to get all relevant records from every listed source, and may even attempt to get records which were not specifically listed by the claimant but which were discovered during the review of other medical records. For example, it is not uncommon for a disability examiner to learn that a claimant was treated by a certain psychiatrist or psychologist when reading office treatment notes provided by the claimant's family doctor, or while reading an admission or discharge summary from a hospital stay. 2. The disability examiner will evaluate all the mental health and mental treatment records after they have arrived, looking for evidence that might indicate mental functional limitations. The social security administration uses a system of evaluation (for mental disability claims) that assumes a certain set of abilities must exist for a claimant to be able to perform work activity. If these abilities do not exist in the claimant as a result of their condition, or if they possess a certain ability to a lesser extent, the claimant will be considered to have functional limitations in this area. What are the various basic abilities which, according to SSA, a claimant must have in order to be capable of performing work activity? The most basic are the following: A) The ability to understand, carry out, and remember simple instructions. This ability further involves certain various subsidiary abilities such as the ability to remember work locations and procedures, the ability to carry out a work routine without special supervision, the ability to maintain attention and concentration, and the ability to adhere to a defined work schedule. B) The ability to use judgement, which includes the ability to make basic decisions related to work and the ability to be aware of dangers and hazards in the work environment. C) The ability to respond appropriately to work situations and to other individuals in the work place such as supervisors and fellow workers. D) The ability to respond, and adapt to, changes in the work environment. Additional information at: What can I expect from a Social Security Mental Examination or Evaluation? Social Security Disability and SSI Mental Claims and Criteria About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Disability for Knee and Joint pain in North Carolina Can You Get Approved For SSI or SSD Benefits IF You Have A Mental Condition But Do Not Take Medication? Will Your Claim for Disability be Handled Differently if it is Based on a Physical or Mental Problem? Can I Qualify For Disability and Receive Benefits based on Depression? The Social Security Disability and SSI Process for Mental Claims based on Mental Disorders When you file for disability and have both Mental and Physical Conditions What kind of Mental Problems Qualify for Disability? Are SSI and Social Security Disability Requirements Tougher For Mental Claims? Can I apply for benefits with bipolar and no long term medical history? Social Security Disability, SSI, Mental Disorders, and Functional Limitations Eligibility for disability with ADHD If you apply for disability in Mississippi Getting a Disability Lawyer in Mississippi |
