Under Social Security Administration regulations, you can qualify for Social Security disability benefits for a physical or a mental health issue. Often, there can be both a physical and a mental health component to a disability. For example, a physical injury can often lead to depression. Accordingly, it’s always a good idea to make certain your application for benefits includes any issues related to mental illness or health.
It’s important to understand that you can’t simply allege that you were anxious or depressed because of an injury or illness—you must be diagnosed with a mental health disorder. Furthermore, just because you are not currently receiving treatment for a mental health problem doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be included in your application for Social Security disability benefits. The level of depression, anxiety or mental illness need not be sufficient in and of itself to keep you from working. You may be able, however, to qualify for benefits by combining the effects of a physical injury and a mental health challenge.
As a general rule, it’s never a bad thing to discuss emotional or mental health issues with your primary care physician and get a referral to a psychologist, psychiatrist or other mental health professional. It’s pretty common to have an emotional or mental reaction to a physical injury. You may be experiencing depression without being aware of the condition. In some instances, a physical disability might make it difficult or impossible to recognize an emotional or psychological affliction.
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At Aronberg & Kouser, P. A., we have more than 35 years of experience helping people in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Contact us by e-mail or call our office at 856-429-1700 (toll free at 800-49-JUSTICE). Your initial consultation is free.
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