Mental Disability Benefits and What Social Security will ConsiderWhile visiting an online disability forum discussing Social Security Disability programs, I was surprised by how many individuals with mental impairments feel that the Social Security Administration does not consider their mental impairments as seriously as a physical impairment. Does the Social Security Administration evaluate mental and physical impairments in the same way? The simple answer to this question is yes. Social Security evaluates all impairments in the same manner, consequently a mental condition may be considered just as disabling as a physical impairment by the Social Security Administration --- as long as the condition has prevented you from working for the past year or is projected to prevent you from working for a year. What are some of the mental impairments that are considered to be disabling by the Social Security Administration? Depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, or any other mental impairment could be considered disabling by Social Security. What does Social Security look at when evaluating a mental condition? Social Security gathers all the medical records from the physicians, hospitals, and clinics that you have provided during your initial disability evaluation. Additionally, they may request that you fill out informational forms, and they may contact your third party person (the person you listed on your initial application, who knows about your condition). If you were not able to provide current medical information (within the last three months) when you filed your claim, or your medical information was insufficient to make a medical determination, you may have to attend a consultative examination to determine your current mental status. What is a consultative exam? A consultative examination is an exam that is provided by a physician who is hired by Social Security to evaluate the severity of you mental condition. Generally, it is better to have mental health treatment with your own psychologist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional, than to depend upon an consultative examination with a Social Security consultative physician. Why so? Simply because it is more advantageous to have your decision based upon information gathered over a long period of time verus just one short visit to someone who has never treated you in the past. 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: Applying for Disability in Henderson, North Carolina What if Social Security denies you 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? Social Security Disability, SSI, Mental Disorders, and Functional Limitations Is it possible that I will lose my disability benefits when my case is being reviewed? If you apply for disability in Indiana Will I qualify for disability Benefits in Indiana? Getting a Disability Lawyer in Indiana |
