How to Get Social Security Disability for Depression
Many people who have a mental illness wonder how to get Social Security benefits for depression. Individuals often do not know the process of proving depression to receive benefits. The process takes a lot of preparation before starting the application process.
- Prove magnitude of depression. Gather records from doctors, psychologists, therapists and other mental health workers about your history of depression. Ask for copies of psychological evaluation and a form that details your limits due to depression.
- Verify other ailments. Retrieve medical records that describe other impairments that limit the ability to work. Remember to include prescription with side effects that make employment difficult or impossible.
- Write a journal. Keep a daily account of limitations due to depression. Make note of how activities are limited or not able to be completed. Describe specific ailments, such as fatigue that accompanies depression.
- Keep appointments and take medication. Attend all doctor and specialist appointments, making sure to ask questions and for suggestions. Use drugs as directed by the ordering doctor and make refills.
- Apply for Social Security Disability. Locate an application online or go to the Social Security Administration office in your area. Complete all required information on the document like work and medical background data.
- Attend the Consultative Exam (CE). Many people are required to have a special type of exam to verify the extent of injuries. These results will assist in the evaluation of the disability claim. The applicant will receive the outcome of their claim by mail.