Can You Claim Disability Benefits For Anxiety?

Ohio residents like you might wonder what disabilities are eligible for disability benefits. Physical disabilities often get the most attention, but they are not the only ailments that can qualify.

Mental health conditions also qualify for benefits. This includes certain types of anxiety disorders.

Anxiety as a form of disability

Social Security discusses mental health conditions and disorders under their jurisdiction. Anxiety and compulsive-based disorders make up one viable category. It involves excessive fear, anxiety, worry or apprehension. Sufferers may avoid triggering feelings, activities, objects, people or places.

Signs of anxiety-based disorders vary. Some include restlessness and trouble concentrating. You might experience physical symptoms like muscle pain, fatigue and sleep disturbances. You could also suffer from obsessions, compulsions and constant fears about your own safety.

Some examples of eligible conditions in this category include:

• Panic disorder

• Generalized anxiety disorder

• Social anxiety disorder

• Agoraphobia

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Any mental health issues brought on by trauma or stressors do not fall under this category. They have their own separate categories and related evaluations.

Submitting an application if eligible

If you suffer from any of the aforementioned disorders or have symptoms, you might be eligible for disability benefits. From there, you can submit an application that includes evidence supporting your mental disorder. This allows Social Security to evaluate how heavily your disorder impacts your ability to function in daily life.

This is a sometimes complex process. Many people in your shoes seek professional legal help. They act as guidance through the application and can help if you run into any issues along the way.