Step 1: Confirm Eligible Mental Health Diagnoses

Qualifying conditions often include:

• Severe depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders.
• Disorders must cause marked impairment in daily and work-related functions.
• Diagnosis must be supported by licensed medical or mental health professionals.

Step 2: Meet the SSA Duration Requirement

Your mental health condition must:

• Last or be expected to last at least 12 continuous months or be terminal.
• Include ongoing medical treatment and documented progress or deterioration.
• Show in medical opinions how the condition limits your functional capacity.

Step 3: Fulfill Work Credit Criteria

Be sure you:

• Have earned sufficient work credits through Social Security-covered employment.
• Credits vary by age when disability began, typically needing 20 credits in the last 10 years.
• Younger applicants have different credit requirements.

Step 4: SSA Reviews Your Evidence

The SSA will:

• Examine medical records and physician statements confirming the disability's impact.
• Assess your residual functional capacity to engage in any work.
• Determine if your condition prevents gainful employment of any type.

Common Reasons for Denial

Be mindful of:

• Lack of detailed medical documentation from mental health providers.
• Conditions that do not severely limit you or are too short-term.
• Missing or refusing to participate in SSA-required examinations.
• Insufficient work credits at the time disability began.