Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Social Security Disability Benefits

Are you one of the nearly eight million people living with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? If so, our Pennsylvania law firm may be able to help you collect Social Security disability benefits (SSD) for your condition.

Our attorneys and legal staff understand the crippling anxiety caused by PTSD. We know how it can turn your life upside down. That's why we're here to help you fight for the disability benefits that you deserve.

What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder?

Posttraumatic stress disorder, also referred to as post traumatic stress, is a mental illness that develops after exposure to a traumatizing event. In the past, PTSD has been known by many names, including:

No matter what it's called, the effects of this psychological condition are still the same – PTSD is expressed through severe anxiety, emotional frustration, and persistent social impairment.

Who is Eligible to Receive Disability Benefits for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder?

Certain criteria apply to all Social Security disability benefits applicants: you must have significant work history, and your condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in death. For those lacking work history, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may provide Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead.

If your posttraumatic stress disorder compromises your ability to earn a living wage and limits your everyday activities, you may be eligible to receive SSD benefits. The SSA will review your medical history to better understand your condition. Also, it's important to note that there's an expedited review process for military personnel and veterans applying for Social Security disability benefits.

What are Some Causes of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and How is it Diagnosed?

There are many possible causes for posttraumatic stress disorder. Some of the most common events leading to PTSD include:

• Exposure to war or disaster
• Illnesses and/or medical complications
• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
• Violent situations such as assault, car crashes, kidnappings, and more

To diagnose posttraumatic stress disorder, a medical professional will often look for the following criteria:

• Exposure to a traumatic event
• Persistent avoidance of trauma associations
• Persistent re-experience of emotional trauma (nightmares or flashbacks)
• Persistent symptoms of increased agitated state (insomnia, anger)
• Social, occupational, and functional impairment

Living with PTSD and Seeking Social Security Disability Benefits?

Receiving SSD benefits can't cure your posttraumatic stress disorder, but it can provide relief. Struggling to pay bills and meet financial needs is difficult enough for those without a mental illness. Dealing with a condition such as PTSD only complicates matters more.

That's why our Social Security disability benefits attorneys are here to help. We've served the residents of western Pennsylvania and beyond for nearly 30 years. We're committed to helping you fight for the SSD benefits that you deserve. Get started today by contacting us for a free legal evaluation.