Depression is a major condition in which some people seek Social Security disability for because the condition prevents them from working. Social Security considers an individual to be disabled because of a major depressive disorder if the symptoms prevent the individual from working and the condition is expected to last at least 12 months.
For disability purposes, it is necessary to show that depressive episodes are reoccurring. Major depression includes at least one, two-week period where at least five of the following symptoms are present: depressed mood the majority of a day for most days, diminished interest in activities that the individual once enjoyed, significant weight loss or gain, insomnia or excessive sleep, agitated state, fatigue, retardation, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, poor concentration, and/or recurrent thoughts of death.
The way to prove that a major depressive disorder prevents an individual from working is by obtaining the individual’s medical records. It is important that an individual who is applying for disability on the basis of major depression seek and comply with recommended treatment for the condition. Recommended treatments for major depressive disorder include antidepressant medication, psychotherapy and counseling services.
Although the majority of individuals who suffer from major depressive disorder experience mental health limitations, many people with the condition also report physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches or digestive problems.
To receive Social Security disability approval for a major depressive disorder, individuals must articulate how the condition limits their ability to work, how their daily activities have changed since the diagnosis and document that the condition has or is expected to last at least 12 months.
Social Security has a set of guidelines of what it looks at when a major depressive disorder or other mental disorders are claimed. To take a closer look at how Social Security determines disability for mental disorders click here.
