Often, when you mention the word “disability” to somebody, one of the first thoughts that comes to mind is a wheelchair. After all, a wheelchair user is a universal symbol of disability nearly everywhere. Unfortunately, many people’s disabilities and chronic health issues are invisible and go unnoticed, but they are still severely limiting.
What Is An Invisible Disability?
According to the Invisible Disabilities Association, someone with an invisible disability could experience a variety of symptoms daily, such as debilitating pain, dizziness, fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, learning difficulties, as well as auditory and visual impairments. Luckily, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes that qualifying conditions for Social Security Disability can take form in various ways.
What Hidden Disabilities Qualify for Social Security Disability?
You may be entitled to disability benefits if you struggle with the following invisible disabilities:
Autoimmune Diseases:
Inflammatory disease often goes undiagnosed, and the chronic pain and flare-ups could make it especially difficult for a sufferer to work and go about their daily life. Sufferers of autoimmune conditions may be eligible for disability benefits.
Examples of Autoimmune Diseases Include:
- Lupus
- Fibromyalgia
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Crohn’s Disease
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Vitiligo
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Hashimoto’s Disease
Mental Health Conditions:
Symptoms of invisible disorders like anxiety, depression, and autism can often be managed with therapy and medication. However, in more severe cases, that is not enough, and it prevents one from working as a result.
Examples of Mental Health Conditions Include:
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar Disorder
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Depression
- Anxiety
Does My “Hidden” Disability Qualify Me For SSD?
Suppose you believe that your hidden disability qualifies you for SSD payments but don’t see it listed above. In that case, you could find your condition in the Blue Book, which lists all of the qualifying conditions for disability benefits. To meet the SSD standard, your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from performing and carrying out Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). Substantial gainful activity is anything that proves you can be self-sufficient and independent. For example, you may be incapable of substantial gainful activity if you cannot become and stay employed. Therefore, your inability to work is a significant factor in your eligibility to collect SSDI benefits. To confirm if this applies to you, you should consult with a credible Social Security Disability attorney for your best chance of receiving benefits. This is where the Disability Attorneys of Michigan come in.
What if My Condition Does Not Meet the Listings?
It’s important to note that not all autoimmune or mental illnesses are included in the SSA’s “Blue Book” of listings. However, you still may be eligible for benefits if the severity of your condition is equal to another listing or you can no longer work because of your condition and your condition is expected to last for at least a year.
Michigan’s Social Security Disability Attorneys
At The Disability Attorneys of Michigan, we focus on one area only: Social Security Disability. We understand how complicated the SSD application and appeals process can be. Even communicating with the SSA following approval can get tricky and frustrating. This is why we are proficient in the ins and outs of Social Security Disability and work tirelessly to advocate for our clients, helping them win the benefits that they not only need but deserve.
Have you or a loved one recently become disabled or had an existing health condition render you unable to work and carry out everyday tasks? We are here to help every step of the way. Submit a contact form on our website or call our office toll-free at 800-949-2900 for a free consultation of your case today.