What You Need to Know About Social Security Benefits for Depression
Depression is the number one cause of disability among non-fatal medical conditions in the United States.
What is Depression?
It is a medical disorder that’s characterized as sadness, gloom, and feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness.
The three forms of depression are dysthymia, major, and maniac, and they can be caused by genetics, environmental factors, or a traumatic event.
Disability Benefits for Depression
You may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits if you’ve been depressed for at least twelve months and can no longer perform your job duties on a regular basis.
Requirements
To qualify for disability, you need to prove you have a severe case of depression by having at least four of the following symptoms:
- Decreased energy
- Suicidal thoughts
- Poor appetite or overeating
- Problems concentrating
- Lack of interest in activities
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Oversleeping or insomnia
- Delusions, hallucinations, or paranoia
In addition, your symptoms must be so severe that they cause you to have problems functioning socially and participating in daily life activities.
Proving Depression
You will likely need to provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) with a statement from your treating physician or psychologist/psychiatrist that explains your depression. You’ll also need to provide information such as appointment dates, medical records, and the type of treatment you are currently receiving. Unless you are financially unable to do so, it’s important that you follow all of your doctor’s orders. Otherwise, the SSA could find you in noncompliance, which means your application will be denied.
If you are suffering from depression, and need help applying for Social Security Disability, please contact us. Our lawyers can help you through the process from start to finish.