Many suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just our veterans that can suffer from this often invisible disorder. If you are a sufferer of PTSD and it’s inhibiting your ability to work then perhaps you are considering Social Security Disability insurance. Can PTSD qualify you for SSDI? PTSD can manifest itself in a lot of ways and not all cases of PTSD will qualify you. Let’s go through how the SSA classifies PTSD and how it decides if you qualify.
How does the SSA define PTSD?
In order for you to have PTSD in the eyes of the SSA, you must have medical documentation of several things. You must have had exposure to actual or threatened death, violence, or serious injury. You must have subsequent involuntary re-experiencing of the traumatic event. This could include intrusive memories, flashbacks, or even dreams. You must also experience a disturbance in mood or behavior, an increase in reactivity, and an avoidance of external reminders of the event. Again, you must have medical documentation supporting all of these areas.
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What determines if PTSD qualifies you for SSDI?
If you have established PTSD based on the above metrics, then you still may not qualify for SSDI. There are two ways your PTSD might qualify. The first way to qualify is if your PTSD has been medically documented for at least 2 years and there is evidence that ongoing therapy and treatment can diminish the symptoms and signs that you have a proven minimal capacity to adapt to changes in your environment.
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If you do not meet those criteria, then you must meet at least 2 of the following criteria:
- Extreme limitations in your ability to understand, remember, or apply information.
- An extreme inability to interact with others.
- Extreme limitations in your ability to concentrate, persist, or maintain pace.
- Extreme limitations in your ability to adapt or manage yourself.
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How to apply for SSDI with PTSD?
If you are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance, then you may need help. An experienced disability attorney such as those found at Tabak Law can assist you with your claim. Reach out to us today. We have the experience you need on your side. We can review your case before it gets to the SSA to ensure that it is viable, and we can see you through the process.
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