Ohio Social Security Disability And SSI Legal Blog

Can you apply for benefits due to anxiety?

As someone suffering from anxiety, you know that it is often just as debilitating as any physical disability. But did you know that you can potentially gain benefits for your mental health troubles?

Not as many people know that mental disorders in adults may fit criteria for benefits. But if your ailment falls into this category, you can get the help you need in dealing with potential financial struggles resulting from job loss or an inability to work.

Types of anxiety disorders

Social Security discusses how mental disorders in adults may qualify for benefits. These disorders fall under several categories. For example, one grouping is anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Numerous disorders fall under this. A few include panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and agoraphobia. These are not the only disorders that could apply, so do not fear if your own is not listed.

Shared symptoms

Anxiety disorders also tend to share symptoms. Many manifest in physical ways. For example, sufferers may experience fatigue, sleep disturbance, muscle tension, restlessness and trouble concentrating. Also common are obsessive thoughts and concerns, especially about safety. Many experience compulsions and obsessions, even if they do not have obsessive-compulsive disorder. Physical complaints also couple with anxiety, such as headaches or digestive problems.

Note that you may find some overlap among disorders. For example, trauma and stressor related disorders often involve anxiety. However, these disorders have their own grouping. If you do not know whether your disorder qualifies you, you may want to contact a legal professional. They can help you decide what to do next.