How a Social Security Disability Attorney Can Help You Navigate SSDI Claims for PTSD
Today, research has revealed more information than ever before to aid in understanding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Unfortunately, PTSD can have a far-reaching impact on many people and requires significant time and medical care to treat. A qualified Social Security Disability attorney can work with you through this challenging process to make it as stress-free as possible. Phillip M. Hendry Law can help you navigate the complexities of a Social Security Disability Insurance claim for PTSD so you can get approved and obtain the benefits you deserve.
Understanding What PTSD Is
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that’s caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event or series of events (things that are shocking, terrifying, or dangerous, that are mentally or physically painful, or that threaten the well-being of a person mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually).
Though it’s commonly associated with military combat, this psychiatric disorder can impact anyone. The severity of PTSD can vary based on several factors, including the individual’s mental health, the number and longevity of the traumatic event(s), and more. The US Department of Veteran Affairs found that 6% of adults experience PTSD in their lifetimes.
Key PTSD Symptoms to Know
PTSD can show up with different symptoms that can range in frequency and severity. They can also vary over time, even in the same individual. While some people diagnosed with PTSD have mild symptoms and can recover or adapt, others have intense symptoms that can last for months or years and negatively impact their daily lives.
Symptoms may be grouped into one of these categories: intrusive memories, avoidant behaviors, negative changes in thoughts or behavior patterns, or problematic physical or emotional reactions.
Common symptoms associated with PTSD and trauma-related disorders include:
- Negative thoughts
- Hopelessness
- Memory loss or problems
- Flashbacks or otherwise reliving the event(s)
- Physical responses to traumatic thoughts and memories (pain, nerve problems, headaches, nausea, stomach problems, dizziness, trembling, sweating, and more)
- Nightmares
- Insomnia
- Detachment and isolation
- Loss of interest in activities the person previously enjoyed
- Relationship problems with family and friends
- Trouble focusing
- Feeling emotionally numb
- Self-destructive behaviors
- Being easily startled
- Hyperarousal (feeling on edge)
- Irritability, aggressiveness, or anger
- Extreme mental or emotional reactions to triggers that remind the person of the event(s)
- Alcohol or substance abuse
- Avoidance of certain people, places, or things.
PTSD Can Greatly Impact Your Ability to Work
Because the symptoms can be sudden and intense, they can impair a person’s mental and physical capacity to work. PTSD can last for months, years, or a person’s lifetime, and in some cases, the debilitating nature of many of the symptoms means this and related disorders may prevent them from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). Contacting a skilled SSDI attorney can greatly increase your chances of approval.
What You Need to Meet an SSDI Listing for PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder and other stress- and trauma-related disorders are listed under section 12.15 of the Blue Book for mental impairments. To meet the criteria for the listing, you must display the following symptoms, plus have accompanying medical documentation from an acceptable medical source.
Medical Evidence Is Key
Extensive medical evidence from acceptable medical sources is key to obtaining SSDI approval for PTSD and getting the benefits you deserve. Your doctors can identify indicators of PTSD such as:
- Being subjected to real or threatened death, violence, or serious injury
- Continual re-experiencing of the event through things such as involuntary flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts
- Avoiding external triggers of the event(s)
- Mood and behavior problems
- Experiencing an increase in arousal and reactivity responses.
Proving Limitations
If you meet the criteria above, you will still need to prove one extreme or two marked limitations from among the following to meet SSDI requirements:
- Adapting to or managing basic everyday activities
- Having appropriate social interactions
- Ability to interact with information (learning, applying, remembering, or understanding)
In certain circumstances (such as a protected group home setting), individuals may still meet the requirements without displaying extreme or marked limitations of the above.
What to Do to Equal the Listing If You Don’t Meet the Requirements
You may still be able to collect benefits through a medical-vocational allowance even if you don’t meet the Blue Book section 12.15 criteria. Your medical records, past work, and documentation surrounding your functioning will be critical to getting a medical-vocational allowance approved. A qualified SSDI attorney can help you sort through the process and work towards benefits in this area.