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Breaking the Stigma: Navigating SSDI for Mental Health Disabilities

Updated: 6 days ago

October is Mental Health Awareness Month, with October 10th recognized globally as World Mental Health Day. It's a time to shine a light on the importance of mental health, break the stigma surrounding mental illness, and encourage those facing challenges to seek support.


Navigating the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) process can feel overwhelming, especially when mental health challenges are at the forefront. For many individuals suffering from conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the thought of applying for disability benefits brings its own set of hurdles—social stigma, navigating a complex system, and finding the right support network.


This post will explore the challenges and stigma associated with mental health disabilities and applying for SSDI. With insights from Kristina Miller, founder of Don’t Make It Weird (DMiW), we’ll shed light on the importance of support systems, share practical tips for navigating psych evaluations, and provide clarity on what mental disabilities qualify for SSDI. We’ll also discuss what to expect from the SSDI application process and where you can find additional resources and support.



Man standing next to a tall wall of what appears to be glass or ice, breaking the wall so that there it is shattered, representing "Breaking Through the Stigma"




Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health and SSDI


Mental health remains one of the most stigmatized areas in the medical and legal field. This stigma can follow individuals into the SSDI application process. For those suffering from disabling conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, the decision to apply for disability benefits can come with emotional and societal pressure.


Often enough, there are times when people feel ashamed or as though they are ‘giving up’ on themselves when they decide to seek SSDI for a mental health disability. The stigma surrounding mental health runs so deep in society that it can affect people's ability to advocate for their own needs.




Green Ribbon "Don't Make It Weird. A Mental Health Resource for the Community, by the Community."



Kristina Miller, founder of Don’t Make It Weird (DMiW), explains:


“The stigma associated with mental health disabilities often stems from misconceptions—many believe these conditions are less ‘real’ than physical disabilities, or that people can simply ‘snap out of it’ with enough effort. 


However, mental health conditions can be just as debilitating as any physical illness, often making it impossible to work and earn a steady income. It is important to remember that mental illness IS illness. Just like any other illness, it can be chronic, it can be mild or severe, it may or may not require medication, it can be life-threatening, it requires monitoring, and it deserves the same amount of attention and support.”



If you’re wondering, "What mental disabilities qualify for SSDI?", the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes a wide range of mental health conditions, including:

  • Anxiety Disorders

  • Depression

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Bipolar Disorder

  • Schizophrenia

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)


These conditions—and many others—can qualify for SSDI if they significantly impair your ability to work.




How SSDI Supports Mental Health Disabilities


Applying for SSDI for Mental Health Disabilities is not as simple as having a diagnosis. To qualify, your mental health condition must prevent you from maintaining substantial gainful activity (SGA), and the severity of your condition must meet specific criteria.


Let’s break down the SSDI application process for mental health disabilities:


1. Documenting Your Condition

You will need to provide medical evidence of your condition, including treatment history, medications, and regular documentation from your healthcare provider. Psychiatric evaluations and progress notes are essential to demonstrating how your mental health condition affects your daily functioning.


2. Filing the SSDI Application

The application includes information about your condition, your work history, and how your mental illness prevents you from working. You can file your claim online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office.

Here’s where practical tips for navigating psych evaluations and disability interviews come into play:



A young person sitting down with their face blurring to the right and their right hand blurring to the left, representing someone overwhelemed with thoughts. The graphic reads: "Be honest and specific about how your mental health affects your ability to function day-to-day."


What to say at a disability doctor

Be honest and specific about how your mental health affects your ability to function day-to-day. Describe your symptoms clearly—mention how often they occur and their severity.


What not to say at a disability doctor

Avoid minimizing your symptoms or stating that you are "fine" or "managing." This can lead to your claim being denied. Many people feel uncomfortable discussing their mental health in detail, but it’s important to present an accurate picture to the evaluator.


What not to say in a disability interview for mental health:

Don’t downplay your struggles. It’s natural to want to appear strong, but for the sake of your claim, you need to paint a clear picture of how your condition limits your abilities.


3. Waiting for a Decision

The initial SSDI approval process can take anywhere from several months to over a year, especially for mental health claims. Unfortunately, mental health claims are more likely to be denied on the first application than claims for physical disabilities.


"Did You Know?" written inside of a red speech bubble.


According to the Social Security Administration, mental health disorders accounted for 33% of all disability claims in 2020, yet only 28% of those claims were initially approved. This is why it’s crucial to submit thorough documentation and follow the application process closely.




A yellow happy face on construction paper and a blue unhappy face on construction paper, with "Avoid minimizing your symptoms or stating that you are fine or managing" below.


Support Systems Matter: Insights from Kristina Miller


It’s easy to feel isolated when dealing with a mental health disability, but leaning on trusted family, friends, and professionals can make all the difference. Mental health is a journey that no one should navigate alone. Kristina Miller, CPS-P, VP and Director of DMIW, Inc, emphasizes the importance of having a solid support system throughout the process.


Mental health IS health. Mental illness IS illness. Just like any other illness, it can be chronic, it can be mild or severe, it may or may not require medication, it can be life-threatening, it requires monitoring, and it deserves the same amount of attention and support. We hope you will join us in our mission to break the stigma while building a resilient, compassionate, and loving community.”


Whether you’re applying for SSDI for mental health reasons or supporting a loved one who is, finding people who understand your struggles and can provide encouragement along the way is critical.


This is why DMiW hosts various events, classes, and workshops designed to foster a community that reduces the stigma around mental health. For example, their recent event on September 28th, the Youth Mental Health First Aid Class, focused on empowering individuals to better support the mental health of young people. These types of community-based events help cultivate a more accepting and understanding environment for those facing mental health challenges.




What to Expect During a Psych Evaluation and Interview

If you’re applying for SSDI, you may need to undergo a psychological evaluation as part of the process. This can feel intimidating, but preparing yourself can help make the experience more manageable.


What to Expect:

  1. Mental Status Examination: The evaluator will assess your behavior, thought processes, memory, and mood.

  2. Questioning About Symptoms: You’ll be asked about the severity and frequency of your symptoms, how they affect your daily life, and how long you’ve been experiencing them.

  3. Functional Capacity Evaluation: The doctor may evaluate how your mental illness affects your ability to work and function in various environments.


What Not to Say During a Psych Eval:

  • Don’t lie about your symptoms, as inconsistencies in your medical records can hurt your case.

  • Don’t minimize your struggles or say things like, “It’s not that bad” or “I’m handling it.”


What Happens if I Can’t Work Due to Mental Illness?

If your mental health condition is severe enough to prevent you from working, the SSA may approve your claim, granting you monthly SSDI payments. The amount you’ll receive depends on your work history and how much you’ve paid into Social Security through payroll taxes.




How to Apply for Social Security Disability for Mental Health

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Gather Documentation: Collect all medical records, doctors' reports, and personal statements about how your condition impacts your daily life.

  2. File Your Application: You can apply online at ssa.gov or in person at a Social Security office. The Edmonson Law Firm can help you with this as well.

  3. Respond to Requests for Additional Information: The SSA may request further documentation or require you to undergo a consultative examination.

  4. Follow Up on Your Application: Check your application status regularly and respond promptly to any requests from the SSA.


If your claim is denied, don’t panic. Many claims are denied initially. You have the right to appeal the decision and present additional evidence.





Final Thoughts

Navigating SSDI for mental health disabilities is challenging, but with the right information and support system, you can overcome the stigma and get the help you need. Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance—whether through Don’t Make It Weird (DMiW) or The Edmonson Law Firm. Both organizations are here to assist you in your journey toward mental health stability and financial security.


Remember: Georgia's Hometown Law Firm is committed to standing by your side as you navigate your SSDI claim, and Don’t Make It Weird is dedicated to breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health.


If you have questions about how to apply for SSDI or want to attend one of DMiW's upcoming events, reach out today.

For legal assistance with your SSDI claim, call The Edmonson Law Firm at (678) 271-9111 or fill out our hassle-free SSDI questionnaire.


To find out more about DMiW and their workshops, visit their website or email info@dmiw.org for details on upcoming events.






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