Anxiety is something that many people in Orlando suffer from. Yet if yours reaches the point of becoming disabling, then you may be concerned about how your inability to deal with it and perform the duties of your job will impact you and your family financially. That same concern has been shared by many that have come to see us here at Hilado Law PLLC. Just as they were, you will be happy to learn that the Social Security Administration has defined criteria under which anxiety might qualify you to receive disability benefits.
Those criteria can be found in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments. Per these rules, your condition must be manifest one of the following manners:
- Anxiety disorder characterized by any three of the following symptoms: restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension or sleep disturbance
- Panic disorder manifest through panic attacks and/or a disproportionate fear of at least two distinct situations
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder characterized repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety and/or involuntary preoccupation with intrusive thoughts
In addition, you must demonstrate a marked limitation in common areas of mental functioning, such as interacting with others, adapting to new situations, concentrating on specific topics or understanding, recalling and applying information. If these problems are not present in your case, then it must be shown that you have received consistent treatment for your particular disorder for at least two years aimed at reducing the impact of your symptoms. Documentation of such treatment must also be accompanied by evidence that you struggle at adapting to any changes in patterns that are not already part of your daily routine.
You can learn more about qualifying for SSD benefits by continuing to browse through our site.