As a worker suffering with an anxiety disorder, you understand too well that mental disorders can have just as big of an impact as physical health issues. In fact, Social Security Disability (SSD) might cover your mental disorders in some cases.
But do SSD benefits cover anxiety? If so, what forms? And how much of an impact does your life need in order for you to qualify?
Disorders related to anxiety
Social Security examines categories of mental health disorders that may potentially hold eligibility for disability benefits. Anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorders are among them. The listed disorders they have on their site include:
- Panic disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Agoraphobia
- Obsessive compulsive disorder
But this is not an exhaustive list. If you do not see your particular disorder, that does not mean you do not qualify to apply for benefits.
Shared signs and symptoms
Disorders in this category often share traits and characteristics. Primary shared traits include excessive worry, fear or apprehension. Victims of these disorders often avoid thoughts, activities, feelings, objects, places and people that might stoke these feelings.
Victims of these disorders often share similar symptoms resulting from them, too. For example, many suffer from restlessness, trouble concentrating, muscle tension and fatigue due to sleep disturbances. Hyper-vigilance and panic attacks also happen. Victims often have frequent physical complaints too, as anxiety puts a heavy strain on the body.
For many, anxiety disorders destroy your ability to enjoy daily life. When it interferes with your ability to make a living and sustain yourself, this is when you can seek additional aid in the form of benefit application.
