Experiencing a frightening event is understandably overwhelming and unpleasant. While many people are able to process this experience and move forward with their lives, others can develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that can become intrusive and debilitating. For some individuals with PTSD, the severity of their symptoms can interfere with their ability to work or accomplish everyday tasks. As a result, a person with PTSD may be unable to earn a steady paycheck, leading to financial instability and other worrisome outcomes. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes PTSD as a disability when a person’s PTSD symptoms are severe enough to interfere with their ability to hold a job and care for themselves. In order to apply for Social Security for PTSD benefits, you will need to provide documentation of your diagnosis and condition, which can be somewhat challenging to do on your own. Let’s take a look at how to prove PTSD for disability in Washington State and why enlisting the guidance of an experienced and caring Spokane SSDI attorney is highly recommended to improve your chances of success.
Does the SSA Recognize My PTSD Disability?
Many people with PTSD wonder whether this condition is considered a disability in the eyes of the SSA. Essentially, the SSA recognizes PTSD as a disability, but the applicant must meet several eligibility requirements in order to access SSDI benefits. Like other psychological disorders, PTSD can be classified as a severe medically determinable impairment (MDI) that interferes with a person’s ability to support themselves or hold a stable job. When you apply for PTSD disability benefits, you must submit evidence of your condition to prove that the severity of your symptoms has negatively affected your quality of life and employability.
How to Qualify for PTSD Disability Assistance in Washington
When you submit your SSDI or SSI application, you will need to include documentation that the SSA considers “objective medical evidence from an acceptable medical source.” Since PTSD is not a medical condition that can be measured or diagnosed through laboratory tests, the SSA will accept professional notes from a licensed mental health therapist attesting to the patient’s psychological symptoms and their severity. It’s important to recognize that the SSA does not require proof that the original traumatic event occurred; instead, there must be evidence that the person reported the traumatic event to a social worker or therapist at some point. You may also include personal statements from professionals who can attest to the severe impact your PTSD has had on your behavior and ability to function from day to day. Every case is unique, so it’s best to work with your dedicated and caring SSDI lawyer to identify the most compelling evidence to include with your application.
Learn More About Getting Disability for PTSD Today
At Schott Law, we are committed to helping you and your family secure the government benefits you deserve. As Spokane’s go-to SSDI law firm, we’re ready to help you develop a customized plan for obtaining your desired outcome. Please call our office today at (509) 328-5789 to get started with a dedicated and caring Washington SSDI and SSI attorney.
