Social Security Disability’s Common Conditions: Depression

March 5, 2014

One of the most common conditions that can qualify Americans for Social Security disability benefits is depression. Some estimates show as many as half of all Social Security Disability claimants suffer from this mental disorder.

To qualify for benefits based on depression, an individual must either meet certain disability criteria, which is found at the Social Security Administration’s website, or be granted a medical-vocational allowance based on the severity of the depression and a number of other factors, including work history, age, other impairments, and educational level.

In order to qualify for Social Security Disability based on depression, an individual must suffer from at least four common symptoms, such as:

• Lack of interest or pleasure in most activities
• Decreased appetite
• Poor appetite or overeating
• Insomnia or oversleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Lack of physical movement
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Paranoia, delusions, hallucinations
• Suicidal thoughts

These symptoms must additionally impair one’s ability to:

• Conduct activities of daily living
• Function socially
• Focus

The Social Security Disability Lawyers with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin know how difficult it can be to live with depression and our team of attorneys is here to help. Call us today at 1-866-684-7216 if you are struggling to make ends meet because of your depression.