Mental Health Conditions That May Qualify for SSDI

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes a wide range of mental disorders that may qualify for disability benefits, including:

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Borderline personality disorder

You may qualify even if your condition isn’t specifically listed, as long as it significantly limits your ability to work.

How to Apply for SSDI in Illinois for Mental Health Issues

Applying for SSDI with a mental health condition involves several steps. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Determine If You Qualify

You must meet SSA’s definition of disability, which means your condition:

• Prevents you from working for at least 12 months
• Is severe enough to interfere with basic work activities like concentrating, interacting with others, or following directions
• Has been diagnosed by a qualified mental health professional
• Is documented through medical records, therapy notes, or hospitalizations

Step 2: Gather Strong Medical Evidence

SSA looks closely at your mental health treatment history. Important records include:

• Psychiatric evaluations
• Therapist and counselor notes
• Records of hospital stays, emergency visits, or medication management
• Function reports describing how your condition affects daily life
• Statements from mental health providers about your functional limitations

The more consistent and detailed your documentation, the stronger your claim.

Step 3: File Your Application

You can apply for SSDI in Illinois in several ways:

• Online at www.ssa.gov
• By calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213
• In person at your local Illinois SSA office

When applying, make sure to:

• List all your mental health conditions
• Include information about your therapy sessions, medications, and any hospitalizations
• Be clear about how your condition impacts your ability to concentrate, interact, follow directions, and manage daily routines

Step 4: Cooperate with SSA’s Requests

The SSA may ask you to:

• Attend a Consultative Examination (CE) with one of their doctors or psychologists
• Provide updated records or answer questions about your functioning

Respond promptly to avoid delays.

What Happens After You Apply

After your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Illinois Disability Determination Services (DDS). This process usually takes 3 to 6 months. If your claim is denied (which is common), don’t give up—you have the right to appeal.

Appeals in Illinois follow these steps:

• Reconsideration
• Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
• Appeals Council Review
• Federal Court Review (if necessary)

Tips for a Strong Mental Health SSDI Claim

• Stay in treatment: Ongoing therapy or medication management shows SSA that your condition is real and serious
• Be honest and thorough: Don’t minimize your symptoms; explain how they affect your daily life and work capacity
• Keep a journal: Document your symptoms, mood changes, panic attacks, or other difficulties—these notes can support your claim
• Include any physical health issues: If you also have physical conditions, they may strengthen your overall case when combined with mental health issues