Residents of Washington state who have enough of a work history to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can file an application to receive monthly financial assistance for a qualifying medical condition or disability. It’s important to understand that disabilities and medical conditions can include some mental health disorders, which may allow those who struggle with severe depression, anxiety disorders, or other recognized mental health challenges to receive SSDI benefits. However, applicants may need help proving these “invisible” conditions to the SSA in order to access these much-needed benefits. By enlisting the guidance of a highly qualified and caring Spokane SSDI attorney, you can identify the most strategic course of action that maximizes your chances of having your SSDI application approved by the SSA. Let’s take a look at some mental health conditions that qualify for Social Security disability and how to prove mental illness for disability in Washington state.
Mental Health Conditions That May Qualify For SSDI Benefits
The SSA establishes several eligibility criteria that determine whether an applicant may qualify for SSDI benefits. According to the SSA’s website, “The listings for mental disorders are arranged in 11 categories,” ranging from neurocognitive disorders to trauma- and stressor-related disorders. Generally speaking, applicants with a documented history of mental health disorders like depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and neurodevelopmental disorders (i.e., autism, ADHD, etc.) may be able to receive SSDI benefits in Washington state. If you have questions about the eligibility criteria for SSDI in the greater Spokane area, please contact a caring and dedicated SSDI attorney for the personalized legal guidance you need.
Social Security Mental Health Criteria in Washington State
When you fill out an SSDI application, you will need to provide specific information and supporting documentation that shows you are affected by a diagnosed mental health disorder that’s recognized by the SSA. Essentially, the SSA wants to see evidence of your mental health condition (i.e., that you received an official diagnosis from a licensed professional and sought consistent treatment for this condition). Moreover, the SSA needs to see the functional limitations of this mental health condition on your ability to perform the functions of your job. In other words, how has the mental health disorder affected your work, relationships, focus, and daily routine? With a knowledgeable and experienced SSDI attorney by your side, you can put together a clear and compelling application that maximizes your chances of securing these much-needed benefits.
How to Prove Mental Illness For Disability
In addition to completing an SSDI application, you will need to include evidence that supports your request for these benefits. Depending on the nature of your mental health condition and other relevant factors, you and your SSDI lawyer can compile medical records, clinical notes, psychological test results, evaluations by mental health professionals, statements from therapists or social workers, and third-party reports to support your claim.
Contact a Caring Disability Lawyer For Mental Health Claims in Washington State Today
Although the SSA does not require applicants to hire legal representatives in order to submit claims, doing so is highly recommended to avoid common mistakes that can result in denied claims. Working with a local SSDI attorney can help you frame your case in a compelling way, improving your chances of having your claim approved on the first try. Additionally, your dedicated legal advocate can help you navigate any inconsistencies in treatment or prepare for a consultative exam to make your application more thorough and complete.
For over a decade, the dedicated team of SSDI and SSI attorneys at Schott Law has helped Washington state residents file applications and appeals to secure the benefits they need. Please reach out to our Spokane office today at (509) 328-5789 to get started with a caring and knowledgeable SSDI attorney.
