Many new moms experience postpartum depression after childbirth, marked by mood swings, crying spells, anxiety, and depression. This form of depression can begin within the first two or three days after delivery and for some new moms, the symptoms can be severe and long-lasting. These women experiencing postpartum depression require help from their doctor or psychiatrist. They may also require some form of income and support because of their condition. Postpartum depression can be a condition that makes you eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.
To qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits, your disability must be severe enough to last at least 12 months and prevent you from full-time gainful employment. If your postpartum depression is expected to last and prevents you from returning to your past work or doing any other full-time work, you should consider a Social Security Disability case.
Improve Your Chances of Obtaining Benefits
After the Social Security Administration confirms that you meet basic eligibility, they will review your medical records to determine if you meet all program requirements. The Social Security Administration will obtain documents and your medical file to review the symptoms of your postpartum depression to determine what you can and cannot do despite your disability. Documents related to your postpartum depression may include medical records from your therapist, psychiatrist, mental health clinic, or any other establishment where you receive treatment. This treatment record is important to prove your disability case.
In some cases, the Social Security Administration will schedule a mental status examination to assess your postpartum depression. The report from this examination will be used to determine whether or not you are eligible for benefits.
A disability attorney can help you apply for and obtain Social Security disability benefits for your postpartum depression. You will be provided with information on how to prepare and submit your medical record to the Social Security Administration. An attorney can also help prepare and file appeals, in the event of a denial, and prepare you for a potential hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.
If you believe your postpartum depression may qualify you for Social Security disability benefits, reach out to the LaPorte Law Firm for a free consultation. We have over 40 years of experience helping those with mental health impairments win their Social Security benefits.
