Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available for a wide range of disabilities, which also includes many mental illnesses like Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These illnesses can interfere with a person’s ability to work or retain employment. But is it hard to get a disability for PTSD?
It may be harder to get a disability for PTSD compared to other mental or physical illnesses. This is because it is difficult to provide scientific, objective proof for PTSD and the severity of its symptoms. It is also difficult to prove that the root cause of the symptoms is PTSD.
Before we can go into this in a bit more detail, let us go through an overview of getting diagnosed with a disability for PTSD.
SSDI for PTSD
Experiencing or witnessing a stressful event can lead to PTSD. Affected individuals may find it difficult to function normally. Traumatic stress disorder is characterized by intrusive flashbacks and nightmares that might interfere with daily life.
Hypervigilance, severe fear of a recurrence, anger or irritability, and a tendency to be easily startled are all symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Depending on the severity of symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorder treatment may include a variety of approaches, including but not limited to counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, antidepressant drugs, and antipsychotic medications.
PTSD disability claims might be accepted in one of two ways. One way to get approved is if your medical records show that you meet the criteria for a traumatic stress disorder on Social Security’s disability listing.
The second option is to apply for what is called a “medical-vocational allowance.” This is how most SSDI claims are usually accepted.
What is a Medical-Vocational Allowance?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) may grant you a medical-vocational allowance if they find that your symptoms are severe enough to keep you from working, even if you fail to satisfy the requirements of the listing for benefits.
Lack of sleep, difficulty focusing, and memory lapses are all symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder that can make it difficult for survivors to hold down a job.
A medical vocational allowance is more likely to be granted if you have additional health problems that prevent you from working.
Is It Hard to Get SSDI for PTSD?
Getting SSDI based on PTSD can be an uphill battle. Disability claims based on PTSD can be difficult to prove because the root cause of the symptoms is not scientifically determinable and there are no objective tests that can prove the disease exists.
As a result, it’s hard for Social Security to determine how severe the claimed symptoms are. There are also a lot of variables involved, such as the seriousness of your symptoms, the success of available treatments, the legitimacy of your medical proof, your age, your level of education, and the nature of your profession.
PTSD claims usually come down to how credible you appear and the quality of your medical care. The greater the specialist’s expertise and the more compelling the doctor’s treatment records, the better your chances of having your claim approved.
Psychiatric care, hospitalization, medicine, and other methods may all be used in treatment. Adherence to treatment regimens, making visits, etc., can be challenging for those with severe PTSD, which can harm the credibility of your claim by reducing the availability of convincing medical proof.
PTSD Disability Eligibility Requirements
The SSA has strict requirements for all mental illnesses, PTSD included. You must demonstrate that your PTSD is severe, ongoing, and prevents you from working to be approved for disability benefits.
Check that your PTSD fits the following requirements before applying. Social Security Administration officials will look into your case to make sure you meet both Section A and Section B/C requirements.
A. All of the following are supported by your medical records:
- You were subjected to or threatened with death, serious injury, or violence.
- You are forced to relive the event via intrusive memories, dreams, or flashbacks.
- You avoid reminders of the incident.
- You experience changes in mood and behavior.
- You are more reactive, as evidenced by an amplified startle response and difficulty sleeping.
AND B. You are severely limited in a minimum of one of the following areas, and significantly limited in two or more:
- Ability to comprehend, memorize, or apply information.
- Interacting with other people.
- Concentrating, being persistent, or maintaining a constant pace during work-related activities.
- Adapting your behavior and emotions or managing them.
OR C. You’ve been suffering from PTSD for at least two years, and you have documentation that shows:
- You have taken medication, attended therapy, gotten support, or established highly structured settings that have helped you manage your PTSD symptoms.
- You struggle to accept new challenges, especially those that aren’t routine for you.
Note that, for section B criteria, the SSA defines “severe limitation” as being unable to function “independently, appropriately, effectively, and on a sustained basis.”
If you have a severe impairment, you might still be able to live on your own, but your independence will be severely compromised, to say the least.
Should I Apply if I Meet the Criteria for PTSD?
If you suffer from PTSD and meet the SSA’s requirements, you can apply for disability compensation. Even if you aren’t sure if you qualify, you can still apply; however, it may not be worth your effort unless you are accepted.
Apply immediately if this applies to you:
- You have been diagnosed with PTSD AND
- You are often forced to relive the incident AND
- You are unable to manage your emotions, engage in meaningful social interaction, and maintain focus OR
- You’ve been suffering from PTSD for at least two years, and there’s evidence that you have trouble adjusting to new situations.
Wait for some time if this applies to you:
- If you suffer from PTSD but your doctor anticipates that your symptoms will lessen within the next year OR
- Although you fear that your PTSD may eventually prevent you from functioning at work, it has not yet done so.
Don’t bother applying if this applies to you:
- You’re able to continue working despite some challenges due to PTSD OR
- You have a steady job and a monthly income that exceeds $1,400.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is difficult to get diagnosed with a disability for PTSD, as is the case with some illnesses. However, if you have the right evidence, you can build a solid case. We recommend consulting a disability attorney if you are having trouble navigating the SSA’s system so that the process can go smoothly.
