Is Anxiety a Disability? Tips on How to Qualify for Benefits

Is Anxiety a Disability?

If your anxiety is hindering your ability to care for yourself, you can seek disability benefits, as anxiety is recognized as a disability. The government, through the Social Security Administration (SSA), may provide financial support if your anxiety significantly impairs your self-care. According to the ADA, schools and workplaces are required to accommodate your disorder. [1] So, what kind of anxiety accommodations can you expect?

In the workplace, increased flexibility is a typical arrangement. Working from home may relieve your symptoms, or you may be more efficient working part-time instead of a whole week. Some individuals benefit from additional leave time, whether for a mental health day or a therapy meeting. Even extra break time can make a big difference in the event of a trigger or anxiety episode. Employers can also provide valuable support systems.

Important Tip

Navigating the application process can be complex, and having a disability lawyer can be beneficial. They can assist with gathering necessary documents, guide you through the process, and help with appeals if needed, providing valuable support throughout the challenging journey of seeking disability benefits.

5. Appeal if Necessary

Most first-time claims receive a denial, and most claimants will file an appeal. A properly filed appeal prompts a hearing before an administrative judge. Many claimants receiving first-time denials for benefits obtain benefits upon appeal. However, successful claim appeals require navigation through complex hearings and appeals processes that require the legal expertise of an attorney. It often takes a couple of years from applying for benefits until an appeal hearing.

Three variables may explain the relationship between anxiety and disability:

• Physical activity.
• Benzodiazepine and psychotropic medication use.
• Lack of emotional support.

A critical confounding factor is the presence of depressive symptoms, which are often present with anxiety. However, depression is also a significant risk factor for physical disability.

Many individuals who struggle with anxiety attacks either seek clinical medication or self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. People who get prescriptions for their anxiety are less likely to develop substance use disorders, but often, the drugs that they get have high abuse potential, creating more risk.

If you’re struggling with anxiety disorders and substance abuse, get resources for treatment counseling that works. Start getting support with a free call to our mental health and addiction hotline.

Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder a Disability?

A study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that long-term disability was highest in individuals with social anxiety disorder and multiple anxiety disorders, followed by patients with generalized anxiety disorder. This means that various anxiety disorders have different disability levels and that the diagnostic distinction is essential for treatment focus. [5]

Is Social Anxiety a Disability?

More severe symptoms and more comorbidity are linked with chronic anxiety disorders. Therefore, long-term disability is more common in anxiety patients with chronic symptoms of anxiety. According to research published by the US National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), disability is highest in social anxiety disorder and multiple anxiety disorder. Both anxiety attacks and avoidance behavior are associated with higher disability levels. [6]

The Connection Between Addiction and Anxiety

Recognizing addiction as a mental disorder adds complexity to the connection between substance abuse and mental health issues like anxiety. Unfortunately, many treatment centers lack expertise handling dual-diagnosed cases, often treating these conditions separately or neglecting them altogether.

Substance abuse might result from attempts to self-medicate mental health problems, such as anxiety, without a proper diagnosis. This self-medication can lead to dependency and addiction wildly when undiagnosed mental disorders coexist. Untreated dual diagnoses can exacerbate drug abuse, with some substances triggering psychotic attacks that may persist. Addressing anxiety disorders is crucial not only for understanding the roots of substance abuse but also due to the biochemical imbalances that contribute to physical dependence, making a comprehensive approach beyond just behavioral therapy essential for effective treatment.

If you’re seeking assistance with your rehab journey, reach out to a We Level Up Texas treatment professional today—your call is free and confidential.

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