Fairhope Lawyer Helping Those Suffering From Depression
In a nutshell, yes. If severe depression has been part of your life for more than 12 months and you are unable to work, you likely will qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. That said, it may be a difficult process. Millions of Americans suffer from depression. Many of those people are able to manage it well enough to work and lead relatively normal lives. The Social Security Administration understands that, so they make it a point to really ensure people who are able to earn a living aren’t taking advantage of the system. So, at the end of the day, it’s in your best interest to work with a Social Security attorney who knows the ins and outs of the benefits system and can help you round up the materials needed to win your case.
What is Social Security Disability?
The federal government has many tax-funded programs that were initially created to provide financial aid to people who are in need. Social Security is one of the largest and most popular of these programs. Generally, there are two types of Social Security benefits for disabled individuals. The first is called Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and is mainly for the elderly, blind, or anyone who is disabled and is low income. Social Security Disability (SSD), on the other hand, is for individuals who are unable to work due to disability, but have worked in the past and paid into the federal system.
There is a long list of impairments and disabilities, both mental and physical, that qualify for disability benefits. Your disability will need to be on this list if you’re going to be approved for disability. An experienced Social Security lawyer can make this complicated process easy to understand.
Does My Depression Qualify Me for Social Security Disability?
Depression is a mental health disability that can have a major negative effect on your ability to comfortably live life. Depression can affect your mood, feelings, thoughts, physical health, ability to sleep, energy levels, and more. Essentially, depression can affect everything. If you want to get approved for Social Security Disability benefits, you’ll first need to show proof of just how extreme your condition is. Simply being diagnosed with depression probably won’t end with you being approved for disability. You’ll need to show evidence the symptoms of your depression are so extreme you’re unable to obtain or hold down a steady job. You’ll also need to show a statement from a doctor or medical records that you have been suffering from this severe depression for at least 2 years and have been unable to work your job for 12 months. If you’ve been diagnosed with severe depression, the idea of going through a lengthy approval process can be challenging. A Fairhope Social Security lawyer can help you gather all the needed information and submit your claim.
How Long Can I Remain on Disability for Depression?
If you’re approved, you can remain on Social Security Disability for depression for as long as the depression prevents you from working. If your mental disability improves or you’re able to manage it well enough to get a job, you may no longer be eligible for benefits. The Social Security Administration reviews cases on an ongoing basis, usually every few years. After they review your case, they’ll determine whether or not you are still eligible to receive SSD. If your condition gets under control or improves, you are legally required to notify the Social Security Administration as soon as you can.
What If My Application is Denied?
The harsh reality is that over 2/3 of Social Security Disability applications are denied. That number may be even higher for depression cases. If your application is denied, you might want to appeal the decision. It can be a long, complicated process, but the good news is that many decisions are overturned through an appeal. The best way to make sure your appeals process doesn’t drag on longer than it needs to is to work hand in hand with a Social Security Disability attorney. Your attorney can gather required documents and make sure every deadline is made. Walton Law LLC can make sure that, if your initial application is denied, your appeal case has the best possible shot at reversing the decision. Call us today at 251-455-5819.
