Is PTSD A Disability? How To File For SSA Benefits

PTSD or posttraumatic stress disorder in medical term is a form of anxiety triggered by a traumatic event in a person’s life. This is usually associated to horrifying or traumatic experience that causes fear, helplessness, or shock. Many people ask is PTSD a disability and is it covered under SSI or SSDI benefits. The answer lies on the following article.

Who develops PTSD?

People who were subject to traumatic experience like war, tragic accident, calamities, or childhood abuse, violence and rape can develop PTSD. People who experience this illness often develop fear to normal life conditions, restless, and have difficulty controlling stress. This illness exhibits different symptoms varying across patients. Some are treated and coped easily while others last longer. Soldiers who have been to war are proved to have developed this condition and are among the patients who need utmost care and support for treatment.

Is PTSD a Disability under SSA?

Yes. Under certain terms and conditions of the Blue Book, PTSD is listed under Anxiety Disorders. Among the related risk that PTSD may cause are alcohol abuse, depression, drug addiction, eating disorders, and suicide. Other physical conditions that it can trigger include chronic pain, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

How PTSD is determined?

PTSD is determined based on series of psychological and physical evaluation. Medical exams are also administered to check the person’s ability to cope up to society and perform duties as a citizen.

Filing for SSDI with PTSD

Now that question about is PTSD a disability is settled, you can now file for SSDI benefits. You can complete your application online at Apply for Disability in the SSA website. You must understand that applying for SSDI may take time. You will be notified upon completion of your application. A hearing will be scheduled for you.

Series of psychological exams and questioning will take place to determine your eligibility. Once the application is approved, you will receive a letter of notification.

Now you know the answer to the question, “is PTSD a disability,” so what benefits are waiting?  Among the benefits provided for PTSD beneficiaries are medical vocational allowance as determined by the Blue Book. It is important to understand that the SSA will only award the benefits to claimants with severe PTSD condition, and those who are not able to perform substantial and gainful activities to earn money. For more information about disability benefits, assistance, and application, you can visit the agency’s disability page.