Battling an eating disorder can wreak havoc on your life. It is debilitating on a psychological and physical level. If you have an eating disorder and cannot work because of it, you may be able to qualify for SSDI.
The SSA does list eating disorders as a qualifying disability under various circumstances.
How eating disorders can become a disabling condition
The two most common eating disorders include binge eating disorder and anorexia nervosa. All eating disorders can become life-threatening over time. Some disorders include restricting calories to the point of malnutrition and starvation. In contrast, others may eat large amounts of food regardless of hunger to the point of sickness and pain.
An eating disorder can result in various physical symptoms. Over time, people become malnourished, weak and may have severe physical conditions that limit their daily ability to function.
How the SSA assesses eating disorders
When applying for SSDI, the SSA will ask for medical documentation about your eating disorder. You must show that you have a persistent alteration in eating-related behaviors that impairs your psychological and physical health. Additionally, the SSA wants to see that you have extreme limitations in at least two areas of mental functioning, including:
- Interacting with other people
- Adapting or managing yourself
- Concentrating or maintaining pace
- Understanding and applying information
You may find it challenging to take part in regular social activities. Eating disorders can feel like they hijack your mind and make it difficult to perform even simple public activities or care for yourself.
Before you can receive SSDI, you must undergo a medical and psychological evaluation.