Fairhope SSD Lawyer Seeking Benefits for Those With Mental Disabilities
The original reason Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits were created was for people who have a mental or physical disability that is stopping them from earning a living. If you are suffering from a mental disability and are unable to work, you may qualify for SSD. That said, mental disabilities are often more difficult when it comes to qualifying. Often mental disabilities aren’t fully understood and might be less obvious to an evaluator who isn’t as familiar with the mental health field. By seeking the advice of a Social Security lawyer, you can often overcome these obstacles and get the benefits you need.
How Do I Know If My Mental Disability Qualifies Me for SSD?
There is a long list of cognitive, emotional, and mental disorders that qualify for SSD on the Social Security Administration’s website. This list ranges from Schizophrenia to Autistic disorders to PTSD and many more. The Social Security Administration considers any condition on their list to be an extreme impairment worthy of federal benefits if it keeps you from working.
The Social Security Administration also will take into consideration other outside factors when determining whether or not you qualify for benefits. These outside factors include medical records from mental health professionals who have treated you, the testimony of third-party friends, family, or co-workers, and your answers to a form they have each applicant fill out. Mental health cases are tougher to evaluate since so much of it can be subjective. Figuring out how your mental disorder is limiting your ability to work is difficult, as certain symptoms or conditions vary or may not be obvious. When this is the case, it may appear to an examiner that your disability is under control, even though it can, realistically, come back at any moment. A good Social Security lawyer can ensure you get benefits while suffering from these debilitating mental conditions.
What Does Mental Residual Functional Capacity Mean?
If a certified mental health doctor has diagnosed you with a condition that isn’t on the Social Security Administration’s long list of qualifying conditions, they may be willing to consider your mental “residual functional capacity” (RFC). For the most part, this is a test of your ability to perform the basic tasks needed for the career you had before your diagnosis, or even to do any other basic work. If you are unable to do the work you did before, or cannot be trained to do a new job, there’s a chance you’re eligible for disability benefits. A Fairhope Social Security lawyer can evaluate your case and make sure it’s in a good place before it goes to the Social Security Administration.
Why Are Claims for Mental Illness Often Denied?
Mental health disability applications are denied often, and for a wide range of different reasons. Most of the time, lack of evidence comes into play. When you apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you will need to put together undeniable proof that your condition is extreme enough that you can’t hold a job. You’ll want to have medical records, statements from your doctor, and ideally, statements from friends or co-workers who know you well and are aware of your disability. You will also want to be sure if you have been prescribed medication for your disability, that you have records of refills. If you haven’t taken the medication prescribed to you for your condition, your claim will likely be denied. Finally, claims are denied if the disability hasn’t lasted, or isn’t expected to last at least 12 months. When you consult with a trusted Social Security attorney you increase your chances of being approved on your initial application or on appeal.
How Can a Social Security Attorney Help Me?
At Walton Law LLC, we treat every mental illness case with dignity and respect. The sad truth is there is still a stigma surrounding mental health. We will guide you through every step of the application process, and if you are denied, we’ll be with you through the appeal. If you or someone you love is diagnosed with a mental illness and is wondering about Social Security Disability benefits, call Walton Law LLC at 251-455-5819.
