Mental health issues like depression and more are just as devastating, if not more so than physical conditions. That is why the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes serious mental issues like depression when it comes to being paid Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Read on and find out more.

What to Expect

Getting approved for SSDI benefits, regardless of the reason, can be a challenging and lengthy battle. It's best not to expect a quick and positive result after you've applied because hearing from the SSA can take many months. Mental health afflictions like depression are listed in the SSA blue book, but mental issues may take a higher level of proof and documentation.

SSA Depression Guidelines

It's important to familiarize yourself with the guidelines the SSA uses when evaluating applicants who are impacted by depression. The section covering depression appears in the blue book section 12.04 A1. This listing details what the SSA needs to see in terms of proof of your disability. While the SSA won't generally require that the applicant obtain the support of a mental health practitioner, you should strongly consider at least speaking to your general practitioner about your depression symptoms and following through with the suggested medication, and more.

Tips For Getting Approved

1. Dealing with the loss of a job and trying to apply for benefits can feel overwhelming for those with depression. Consider speaking to someone about your depression symptoms and turning to a legal professional. Social Security lawyers can help applicants with the lengthy application form. Help from a lawyer can raise your chances of submitting a complete and accurate application that represents how devastating the disease has been on your ability to perform work. A good application can mean faster processing.
2. Don't put off taking action. COVID-19 has affected many with long-term medical and mental problems, further burdening the SSA system, and the backlog is growing daily.
3. If you can, attend to your mental health by keeping up with appointments. Your records of seeking help are part of the proof the SSA will evaluate when determining your approval or denial.
4. Don't give up if your application for benefits is denied. Speak to a Social Security lawyer and proceed with a request for an appeal hearing. Your lawyer can represent you at the hearing and you may then be approved for benefits. Your legal expenses can be paid when you are approved, and but you only have to pay if you are approved.

Speak to a lawyer at a law firm like Attorney John B. Martin Law Offices to find out more.