Understanding SSD And Mental Health Disabilities
Most people think of disabilities as physical injuries or limitations. However, many mental health conditions can have as much impact as physical impairment. At Harlan Still & Koch, we help clients throughout central Missouri seeking disability benefits for mental health conditions that interfere with their ability to work effectively.
If you are unsure of how to start the process, our team is here to guide you through every step. Contact our office at 1-800-483-1789 to start speaking to a Social Security Disability (SSD) lawyer.
Sometimes A Disability Is Not A Physical Impairment
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes several mental health conditions that may be considered disabling. Our Columbia attorneys will help you organize your medical information and fill out all of the paperwork required by the SSA. Our experience includes assisting clients who have:
- Bipolar disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Other documented mental health conditions
Mental health conditions can be difficult to demonstrate because the full effects of your condition may be unseen or unnoticeable to the casual observer. We strive to help you accurately describe how your condition affects your day-to-day activities. We will also help you gather the proper medical evidence needed to build your claim successfully.
The Qualification Process For SSD Benefits
The very first step in applying for SSD benefits is to collect the necessary documents that support your claim. Then, you must submit your application to the SSA. You can apply online, over the phone or in person at a local SSA office. Your lawyer can guide you through this process.
The SSA will then process your application in five steps:
- Substantial gainful activity (SGA): The SSA first determines if you are engaged in any substantial gainful activity. If you are working and earning more than a certain amount (which the SSA adjusts annually), you will generally not be considered disabled.
- Severity of condition: The next step is to assess whether your mental health condition is severe. The SSA considers a condition severe if it significantly limits your ability to perform basic work activities for at least 12 months.
- Listed impairments: The SSA maintains a list of medical conditions and impairments that are automatically considered disabling in the SSA Blue Book. If your condition equals or is equivalent in severity to one of these listed conditions, you qualify for benefits. If not, the evaluation proceeds to the next step.
- Past relevant work: The SSA evaluates whether your condition prevents you from doing any of the work you did in the past. If you can still perform past work, you may not qualify for benefits.
- Other work: If you cannot perform your past job, the SSA assesses whether you can adjust to other work. They assess factors such as your age, education, job experience and transferable skills. If you cannot adjust to other work, they will approve your claim.
The SSD application process involves complex rules and regulations. An experienced attorney can help you navigate each step and increase your chances of approval. If you have any weaknesses or mistakes in your application, our team will address them proactively.
What To Do If The SSA Denies Your Claim
Receiving a denial is not the end of the road. You have the right to appeal the SSA’s decision. However, the appeals process can be lengthy and complicated, often involving confusing, multilayered steps. Our lawyers can take over this burden and help you build a strong case for reconsideration. We will:
- Assess the reason for denial
- Determine if you have grounds for appeal
- Gather and organize documentation to strengthen your appeal
- Resolve any weaknesses in your initial application
- Help you handle complex regulations and procedural requirements
- Represent you at hearings and court, if necessary
Overall, having an attorney can increase your chances of a successful appeal by providing professional support and reducing the confusion involved in the process. From initial applications to appeals, our dedicated lawyers will stand by your side and fight for the benefits you deserve.
We Provide The Dedicated Support You Need
We are strong advocates for our clients, and our lawyers will help you through the entire process of applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and other disability benefits that may be available to assist you.
To schedule a free initial consultation, contact us at 1-800-483-1789 or send us an email. We keep all correspondence strictly confidential and respond promptly.