Anxiety is normal. Many people get anxious when they have to speak before a large crowd, fly on an airplane, or walk past a dog. The anxiety is short lived and does not affect their everyday lives.
An anxiety disorder is not normal. When you have an anxiety disorder, your anxiety is persistent and may occur for no apparent reason. It impacts your ability to work, to engage in life activities, and to function socially. When anxiety prevents you from holding a job, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI).
Not all anxiety disorders are severe enough to qualify for Social Security disability benefits. SSDI is only available when the anxiety disorder has lasted or is expected to last for one year or longer and is severe enough to prevent the applicant from being able to work for pay. If you are suffering from temporary anxiety because of a stressful situation in your life, you will not qualify for disability benefits. Nor will you meet the eligibility requirements if you suffer from chronic, long-term anxiety but are still able to hold a job.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses listing 12.06 as guidance when determining if an anxiety disorder is severe enough to qualify a person eligible for benefits. If a person does not meet the criteria of listing 12.06, the applicant must have a medical diagnosis of an anxiety disorder and must be able to show that the disorder interferes with daily life, social functioning, and the ability to hold a job for pay.
If you are unable to work because of an anxiety disorder, you can complete an application for SSDI benefits. The application can be filed online, in person, by telephone or we can file for benefits for you in our office.You will need to be seen and treated by a mental health provider. You will also be asked to provide basic information about your work history, and how you disability affects your ability to work. You may have to undergo a mental health exam with a social Security Administration-appointed psychologist or psychiatrist.
Qualifying for SSDI on the basis of anxiety can be a challenge because anxiety is difficult to diagnose and varies from individual to individual. Different doctors use different means of diagnosis and different treatment plans. An experienced Omaha disability lawyer can file your disability application from their office. The attorney will help make sure your paperwork is complete and help you complete all the forms required. For a free evaluation of your claim, contact Cuddigan Law at 402-933-5405.
