Disability For PTSD

Is PTSD A Disability?

Yes, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA), PTSD can be considered a disability if the applicant satisfies the eligibility criteria mentioned in listing 12.15 or 112.15. If your symptoms of PTSD are preventing you from working, you can attain disability for PTSD. 

PTSD is regarded as a permanent VA disability. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) identifies PTSD disability as a serious medical condition that affects mental abilities. Qualified veterans experiencing the disorder can receive PTSD disability benefits.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) includes PTSD as a protected disability. Those with the condition can request accommodations from their employer. These accommodations will vary based upon the needs of the individual.

Causes Of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Individuals sometimes go through experiences so traumatic that it causes severe emotional distress. This is a condition known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Depending on how severe the symptoms of the disorder are, a person with PTSD may be able to qualify for benefits.

PTSD symptoms can be severe enough to become disabling. Those with PTSD can become triggered and relive the traumatic experience(s) in their mind.

Symptoms & Conditions Of PTSD

PTSD symptoms may begin to appear within 3 months of experiencing the traumatic event. However, in some cases, symptoms can appear after years have passed. Some common PTSD symptoms include:

• Flashback of the traumatic event
• Feeling hopeless
• Anger
• Inability to maintain relationships
• Problem with memory
• Sleep disorders
• Depression
• Substance use disorder (SUD)
• Chronic pain
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Visual or auditory hallucinations

Treating post-traumatic stress disorder as soon as symptoms begin to surface is beneficial. Experiences that commonly trigger PTSD include spending time in a combat zone, experiencing a severe natural disaster, or being physically or sexually abused. Treatment for the condition can include therapy and antidepressant medications.

Can You Get Disability for PTSD?

You may apply for PTSD disability benefits if your symptoms are considered to be the effect of a traumatic event. In addition, if your PTSD is an outcome of any stressor, then you meet the eligibility criteria of the SSA Blue Book, and you may qualify for disability. PTSD is considered an anxiety disorder by the Social Security Administration (SSA) as mentioned in listing 12.15. 

An applicant must present all medical records of impairment, psychiatric treatment, counseling notes, and therapies in the PTSD claim. Whenever you file your disability application, the SSA will need the previous year’s medical evidence. As an applicant, it is expected that you will submit all the information for at least one year.

Furthermore, if your healthcare provider can provide you with a residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form, it will be beneficial for your case. In the RFC form, your complete diagnosis, PTSD percentage, and symptoms all must be documented. This may comprise of:

• Focus level of the applicant
• Ability to perform daily tasks
• Social interaction skills
• Timeliness for work

The healthcare professional must state all these facts along with their professional opinions. Third-party statements can also prove to be useful. Your friends, co-workers, or family members can provide their feedback about your symptoms and other observations.

What Are The Aftereffects Of PTSD?

As stated, people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have witnessed or gone through one or more traumatic events. The condition is a type of anxiety disorder that originates directly from the traumatic experience. Many individuals with PTSD experience frequent feelings of helplessness, shock, and fear.

Although many overcome trauma with time and evidence-based coping methods, many individuals find it difficult to move past the shock and suffer from acute mental conditions. Living a normal life becomes a challenge when the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder begin to worsen.

Besides affecting psychological health, symptoms of PTSD can also wreak havoc on a person’s physical health. PTSD may also increase the risk of other mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, and other diseases. 

Social Security disability for PTSD is possible if you can prove that your long-term (1 year or more) disability is from PTSD. Submitting all required documents in support of your disability will make your case strong and reduce the chance of a denial.

What Steps Should You Take If You Have PTSD?

If you have post-traumatic stress disorder, keep in mind that allowing symptoms to worsen can ultimately be life-threatening. If you are experiencing PTSD, consider the following steps:

• First and foremost, consult a professional psychologist to ensure that your PTSD disability symptoms will be treated in a timely fashion.
• Consistently attend the necessary counseling sessions and take any medications that may be prescribed by your psychologist or psychiatrist.
• If your symptoms persist or worsen to the point that you cannot function or perform your job effectively, you can apply for disability.

If you apply, the SSA will evaluate your claim and accept or reject your application for disability for PTSD.

Was Your Disability Application Denied? Contact A Disability Lawyer Today

If the SSA understands that the severity of your psychological condition will last for an extended period and prevents you from working and earning income, you can receive a medical-vocational allowance and eventually qualify for Social Security disability benefits for PTSD. To avoid any denials, you can schedule a free consultation and discuss your disability claim with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer.