Mental Health Disability Claims
If you or a family member is unable to hold a job because of mental illness or other mental impairment, it may be grounds for a Social Security Disability claim. However, mental illness claims can be very difficult to document. You should be represented by an attorney with experience in these complex cases.
Mossman Law Office has a proven record of helping people with mental disorders get qualified for disability pay. Our firm practiced in SSDI and SSI law for 25 years, representing clients across the Boise area and throughout Idaho and eastern Oregon.
Contact us today for the knowledgeable and dedicated advocacy you will need to win. To set up a free initial consultation, please call Mossman Law Office at 208-874-0900 or complete our contact form. Se Habla Español
Social Security Disability And Mental Impairment
We have handled every type of mental illness and mental capacity claim, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Bipolar disorder (“manic depressive”)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia / psychotic disorders
- Personality disorders
- Mental retardation and autism
- Organic mental disorders (brain damage)
Certain claims, such as mental impairment from a head injury, may overlap with physical impairment claims. Depression often stems from a work injury, disease diagnosis or other medical conditions. We make sure that the claim is filed under the proper listing(s) for the best chance of approval.
Proving That Mental Illness Is Disabling
A person whose body seems to be healthy may still be unable to obtain or keep a job. To receive SSDI, the mental illness or impairment must keep you out of work for 12 months. The Social Security Administration must also be convinced that you are not faking the illness and cannot perform simpler jobs requiring a lower mental ability.
The key to obtaining benefits is solid medical documentation:
- Treatment records (diagnosis, prognosis, medications, therapy)
- Supporting affidavits from treating physicians, psychiatrists or psychologists
- Input from family members and care providers
We work closely with claimants, family and witnesses to build the claim, but our goal is to take over the full burden of the long, complex and exasperating process of qualifying for SSDI or SSI benefits. Most mental illness claims are denied on the first application, and also upon reconsideration. About 75% end up at the ALJ hearing and appeals stages, where we have a notable success rate.
Contact Us For A Free Consultation
Chronic pain and mental illness are devastating enough without having to fight a huge and slow bureaucracy alone. For a free consultation, please call Mossman Law Office at 208-874-0900 or complete our contact form. We represent clients throughout Idaho and eastern Oregon. Se Habla Español