Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Somatoform Disorders
Somatoform disorders—now known as somatic symptoms and related disorders—are mental health conditions that involve extreme health-related anxiety and a preoccupation with persistent somatic (physical) symptoms. These symptoms cause a person a disproportionate amount of distress and impair their daily functioning. Mental and physical health are interdependent and interconnected. The mind-body connection likely plays a role in the development of certain somatoform disorders, which can be related to stress, depression, and/or trauma in addition to debilitating physical symptoms. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 12.07 of the Blue Book.
Do Somatoform Disorders Clots Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with somatoform disorders do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability outlined in Section 12.07 of the Blue Book. According to this listing, he or she must suffer from physical symptoms that cannot be traced to a physical finding and these physical symptoms must also meet the required level of severity. If an individual suffers from one criterion from each subsection below, he or she will qualify for Social Security disability benefits under Section 12.07 of the Medical Listings.
Subsection A states that a patient must have either:
- A history of multiple physical symptoms of several years duration, beginning before age 30, that have caused the individual to take medicine frequently, see a physician often and alter life patterns significantly; or
- Persistent nonorganic disturbance vision, speech, hearing, limb usage, movement and control or sensation; or
- An unrealistic interpretation of physical signs or sensations associated with the preoccupation or belief that one has a serious disease or injury.
Subsection B states that a patient must have either:
- Marked restriction of activities of daily living; or
- Marked difficulties in maintaining social functioning; or
- Marked difficulties in maintaining concentration, persistence, or pace; or
- Repeated episodes of decompensation, each of extended duration.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with a somatoform disorder and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
