Anxiety is just a part of life, but living with an anxiety disorder isn’t the same as having occasional bouts of anxiety about your bills, your career or the state of the world.
Some people develop severe anxiety disorders that interfere with their ability to work, socialize or even leave their homes. In many cases, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits will be provided for anxiety disorders – but you have to get through the application process first.
What kinds of anxiety disorders qualify for benefits?
Several types of anxiety disorders may qualify for SSDI benefits, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder, which can manifest without a specific focus and affect a sufferer’s ability to concentrate and function
- Panic disorders, which can cause real physical symptoms during acute attacks and cause sufferers to avoid situations that trigger them
- Social anxiety disorder, which causes sufferers to avoid public situations and interactions with other people
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which involves recurring and intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviors that can become time-consuming and disruptive
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is related to traumatic events and can cause flashbacks, nightmares and avoidance of trauma-related activity
It’s important to note that you may qualify for SSDI based on other anxiety disorders, as well. In addition, any comorbid conditions you have, such as depression or physical disorders, can be factored into the overall picture of your ability to function.
In general, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will evaluate the severity of your condition by looking at the medical evidence that establishes your diagnosis, treatment history and functional limitations. The agency will also consider how your disorder impacts your ability to work, given your skill set, education, age and experience. Finally, the duration of your condition is also critical; you’re unlikely to be approved for an anxiety disorder until you have shown that your condition has been treatment-resistant and has either lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months.
If you have an anxiety disorder and want SSDI benefits, seeking legal guidance early can help you get your claim approved.