What Mental Health Conditions May Qualify?

The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments that includes several mental disorders. Some of the most commonly approved include:

• Major Depressive Disorder
• Bipolar Disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Anxiety Disorders (e.g., PTSD, panic disorder)
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Intellectual Disorders
• Personality Disorders

Even if your specific diagnosis is not listed, you may still qualify if the severity of your condition limits your ability to work consistently.

What the SSA Looks for in Mental Illness Claims

To be approved, you’ll need to show that your mental condition:

• Has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months
• Prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA)
• Is supported by medical evidence, including a formal diagnosis, treatment history, and symptoms

The SSA evaluates how your mental illness affects your daily functioning, including:

• Understanding and remembering information
• Interacting with others
• Concentrating and completing tasks
• Managing yourself in a work setting

Key Evidence for Mental Health Disability Claims

Because mental illness can be subjective, strong documentation is crucial. Your claim should include:

• Psychiatric evaluations or psychological assessments
• Treatment records from therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists
• Statements from mental health professionals about your limitations
• Details about hospitalizations, emergency interventions, or medication adjustments
• Descriptions of how your condition affects your daily life, work performance, and relationships

Consistency in treatment and medical history is important to demonstrate the severity and persistence of your condition.

How Functional Limitations Impact Your Case

Even if your diagnosis alone doesn’t meet the SSA’s criteria, your case may still be approved based on your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)—a determination of what you can still do despite your condition.



If your mental illness prevents you from maintaining attention, coping with stress, or following instructions, your RFC could show that you’re unable to sustain work.