What Mental Health Conditions Can Qualify for SSDI?

 Posted on August 10, 2025 in Social Security Disability

Living with a mental health condition can make it hard to keep a job or manage daily tasks. The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program helps people who are unable to work because of a serious disability, including some mental health conditions. However, not every mental illness qualifies. To be approved, your condition must meet certain requirements. A Dallas, TX SSDI attorney can help guide you through the application process and give you the best chance of getting approved.

Examples of Mental Health Conditions That Could Qualify for Disability

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a list of impairments, called the "Blue Book," that includes mental health disorders that may qualify for SSDI. These include:

• Depression: People with major depressive disorder or persistent depressive disorder may qualify if the condition severely limits their ability to concentrate, interact with others, or take care of themselves.

• Bipolar disorder: Individuals may be eligible when their mood swings interfere with daily life, even if they are taking medication or receiving therapy.

• Schizophrenia and related disorders: A person may qualify if symptoms like delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized thinking make it difficult to function in a work setting.

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): This condition may qualify if the symptoms are long-lasting and significantly affect a person’s ability to work, manage stress, or engage with others.

• Autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities: Applicants may be eligible if the condition limits their ability to communicate, learn, or live independently.

Other conditions that may qualify include anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and neurocognitive issues such as dementia. The SSA uses 20 CFR § 404.1520a to evaluate mental disorders. This includes looking at how your condition impacts your ability to understand information, interact with others, stay focused, and manage daily living.

What Documentation of a Mental Health Condition Must You Provide When Applying for Disability?

When applying for SSDI, strong medical evidence is key. You will need to show detailed records from doctors, therapists, or psychiatrists that explain your diagnosis, symptoms, and how your condition affects your daily life. Supporting documents can include:

• Therapy session notes

• Psychological test results

• Medication lists and side effects

• Letters from doctors about your limitations

You may also need to attend a special exam set up by the SSA. The rules for medical evidence are listed under 20 CFR § 404.1513, which explains what types of professionals can provide this information.

Is It More Difficult To Get SSDI for a Mental Health Condition?

Getting approved for SSDI based on a mental health issue can be harder than for a physical condition. Mental illness is not always visible, and symptoms can change over time. You should show that your condition has lasted at least 12 months and continues to prevent you from working. You also have to prove that treatment has not helped enough to allow you to return to work. The SSA looks at how your condition affects your ability to concentrate, follow directions, and handle stress, as described in 20 CFR § 404.1545.

Contact a Plano, TX SSDI Attorney for a Free Consultation Today

The legal team at The Law Offices of Coats & Todd has decades of combined experience focusing only on Social Security disability cases. Because this is our sole area of practice, we devote all of our time and resources to helping people like you through every step of the process. Whether you need help with your initial application or an appeal, our experienced Dallas, TX disability insurance lawyers can work with you to build a strong case. Contact us today at 972-671-9922 for a free consultation.