Mental health disorders are beginning to lose their stigma, but there are still challenges when they are the basis of a Social Security Disability claim. Our Daytona disability appeal lawyers can help.

The U.S. government distributes Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits through the Social Security Administration. They are meant to act as a safety net for those who have become unable to work due to illness or injury. Eligibility for benefits depends on proof that an individual can no longer engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). Mental health disorders can make proving your case more of a challenge.

Why Social Security Disability Claims for Mental Health Disorders Can Be Challenging

 

Mental Health Is SubjectiveDaytona disability appeal lawyers

Diagnosing mental health issues can be challenging because the symptoms can be subjective. One individual’s symptoms may be different from another individual, but they may have the same diagnosis. Some mental health disorders have overlapping symptoms that can make it more complex to pinpoint which condition is more prevalent.  Many mental health disorders cannot be proven with biomedical markers like blood tests or imaging. Diagnoses come from detailed interviews and observations made by medical professionals. The individual’s history and context are considered as well. Open communication between the individual and their healthcare provider makes it possible to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Mental health disorders include: 
  • Depression
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • And others

Mental Health Impacts The Ability To Work

Regardless of which mental health diagnosis you may have received, it could severely impact your ability to work. Some of the ways a mental health disorder can make it difficult or impossible to engage in SGA include: Cognitive impairment – Some mental health disorders result in difficulties with concentration, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving. Emotional instability – Mood swings, debilitating anxiety, and overwhelming sadness can make working impossible. Low energy and fatigue – Mental health disabilities can lead to a lack of energy resulting in reduced productivity, difficulty meeting work demands, and the need for more time off or breaks. Impaired social abilities – A mental health disorder that affects social interaction and communication skills can pose challenges in managing conflicts, establishing appropriate professional boundaries, and impede teamwork, collaboration, and effective communication in the workplace.

Social Security Disability Appeals

If your claim has been denied, you can appeal the decision. While you can approach this process alone, we highly recommend working with a skilled Social Security Disability attorney. The lawyers at Culbertson, Jacobs & LaBoda, PLLC can guide you through the appeal process.

Mental Health Challenges

The appeal process can be difficult with any medical diagnosis, but mental health diagnoses pose unique challenges because they are harder to prove. Because these diagnoses are subjective, overlapping, and still have some stigma, you need an advocate to fight for your right to benefits.

Culbertson, Jacobs & LaBoda, PLLC Are The Daytona Disability Appeal Lawyers You Need

If you cannot work due to a mental health disorder, let us be your advocate in the appeal process.  With over 45 years of experience in the field, Culbertson, Jacobs & LaBoda, PLLC stands out as a leading authority in Social Security Disability law. Notably, our firm boasts the distinction of having two out of the 10 attorneys in the state of Florida who are certified specialists in this area of law. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our Daytona Beach disability denial lawyers. We can discuss your case and evaluate how we can best serve you in your journey to receive Social Security Disability benefits. We look forward to working with you.