Post-traumatic stress disorder is a condition triggered by a traumatic experience. The symptoms of this disorder vary but can be severe, leading to an inability to work.
Living with this disorder becomes even more challenging when you can no longer do your job. However, you can obtain disability benefits if you meet the Social Security Administration requirements.
How can PTSD affect your ability to work?
When you have PTSD, you may struggle with poor concentration, fear, extreme anxiety and confusion. You may have difficulty concentrating, remembering things and maintaining relationships. You can also develop physical symptoms, such as chronic pain, arthritis and heart disease. These issues can be debilitating, making it impossible to work effectively.
Do you qualify for SSD?
To get disability benefits, you must meet several criteria specified by the SSA. You must be able to describe a typical PTSD episode in detail. Additionally, you must provide evidence showing that your condition is severe and ongoing. It is essential to have medical documentation verifying your trauma or stress-related disorder, such as:
- Therapy records
- Medical treatment history
- PTSD diagnosis from a medical professional
- Residual Functional Capacity Evaluation form
Your medical and mental health records should demonstrate how PTSD affects your ability to function on the job and at home.
Getting the benefits you deserve for your trauma-related disorder can be challenging. Knowing how the process works is vital to improving your chances of success. Understanding what proof you need to collect and present helps support your disability claim when you can no longer work.