Proving Your Mental Illness Claims
If you are suffering from mental illness such as clinical depression or schizophrenia, you already know how difficult life is. Your old life is gone, and you cannot do the work you used to. You may find it difficult to take care of yourself and enjoy the activities you once took part in. Social situations may cause you to become flustered or feel so uncomfortable you withdraw.
Since 1979, we have been helping people who need to file SSDI claims. In that time we have learned much about the disability benefits process, and would like to help you demonstrate how your mental illness has made it necessary for you to receive the benefits you need.
We know and understand the disability claims application process, and how to appeal denials. For experienced SSDI claims counsel, contact us at the Law Offices of Bruce K. Billman in the Richmond area of Virginia.
Proving Your Mental Illness
In order to be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must first prove that you have a viable mental disorder such as post-traumatic stress disorder, bi-polar disorder or anxiety disorders. The Social Security Administration will take the following into consideration, including:
- Day-to-day living skills: taking care of hygiene, kitchen and laundry chores
- How well you function in social settings: feeling comfortable meeting strangers or dealing with groups
- Ability to concentrate: completing a project to deadline
Then you must prove that you are unable to work. Social Security will examine your medical records and ask your doctor for evidence of your illness and your inability to sustain work.
Your medical records are key evidence for review of your disability claims. That is why it is important you keep your doctor regularly informed of the symptoms which limit your activities. If you isolate yourself when stressed out, tell your physician about it. He or she can capture the disorder in your medical records, where documentation will help you prove your mental health claims.
A Little Help from Your Friends
Mental illness makes it difficult to assess how your life has changed. We recommend including a statement from a trusted loved one or close friend proving your mental illness by explaining how your illness hinders day-to-day activity.
To schedule an initial consultation with skilled Social Security Disability lawyer Bruce K. Billman, contact us in our Virginia law offices. Call toll-free 1-800-371-2906. We work on contingency, so you won't pay any attorney fees unless we win by proving your mental illness.
