Social Security Disability and PTSD

Social Security Disability Insurance awards benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to their medical conditions. Both mental and physical disabilities may qualify for disability benefits. Therefore, we will focus on PTSD and the requirements that must be met for this condition.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions within the veteran population. For a claimant with PTSD to qualify for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration will need evidence of anxiety or emotional disturbance.  These are caused by regular flashbacks, nightmares, or memories. However, this evidence must be well-documented to prove the ongoing battle.

Meeting the Disability Requirement with PTSD

To meet the requirement of anxiety, you must have disruptive flashbacks, nightmares, or memories that cause “marked distress”. This means that you suffer from near-extreme anxiety or emotional disturbance. Furthermore, can come memories that make you uncomfortable. The marked distress must interfere with your daily activities, social life, or ability to concentrate. Other ways to qualify under the anxiety listing are as listed.

• symptoms of panic attacks
• OCD
• phobias
• generalized anxiety due to your PTSD

The content of your medical records is critical to the processing of a SSDI claim. In your record there should be at least one detailed description of a typical episode of PTSD. Be sure to include the frequency and duration of any panic attacks. As well as what triggers your symptoms. A doctor should include whether your description of your symptoms matches his/her opinion of your mental state. Also, your medical records should detail how your PTSD symptoms impact your ability to function at home and work.

SSDI Benefits

• Up to $2,700 per month
• Monthly benefits for children under 18 years of age
• The option to utilize Medicare
• Cost of Living increases
• Retroactive benefits

Veterans interested in applying for Social Security Disability with the help of Victory Disability should call 1-866-350-7229. Also, to determine if you are eligible for SSDI benefits, complete the Social Security Disability Evaluation.