When seeking Social Security disability benefits due to a mental, psychological, or emotional disability, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may arrange for an independent evaluation conducted by a psychologist or mental health specialist. These assessments usually apply to situations where the applicant has had minimal or no recent mental health care. If you are living with mental health issues and are embarking on the disability claims process, here’s what you should know about the SSA’s mental health evaluation.
Types of Mental and Psychological Evaluations
The specific evaluations administered during a mental health evaluation vary based on your circumstances and the requirements set by the Social Security claims examiner. To gather a comprehensive understanding of your mental health and determine eligibility for disability benefits, the examiner may request a few different types of assessments. The requested evaluations will depend on the nature of your mental health issues and the information needed for a thorough evaluation.
There are two types of mental health consultative examinations (CEs) that the SSA utilizes to evaluate mental health-related disability claims:
- Standard Psychological Evaluation. This type of psychological evaluation aims to confirm a specific diagnosis and how it affects your mental functional limits and how your condition affects your ability to work.
- Neuropsychological Evaluation. If you are living with a traumatic brain injury or other types of cognitive impairments, you may be asked to undergo this type of evaluation. It assesses cognitive functions such as memory, reading comprehension, attention and concentration, and problem solving.
If you have a cognitive impairment that prevents you from working, let your disability attorney know. Neuropsychological evaluations can be harder to schedule, but your attorney should advocate for you to receive one.
Questions Asked at a Mental Health Evaluation
The primary objective of a mental health evaluation is to address gaps in your medical records and provide the Social Security disability claims examiner with an accurate assessment of your mental health. During the evaluation, the psychiatrist or psychologist will ask for detailed information about several aspects of your life, including:
- Medical History: You must describe your impairments and how they impact your daily life and work capabilities.
- Social History: The examiner will inquire about your relationships and social interactions, including community involvement.
- Physical Health and Well-Being. This includes any medications you’re taking, and any physical conditions you experience.
- Substance Use History. The SSA will ask about your history with substance use. If your mental health conditions are due to substance abuse, the SSA may not approve your claim.
- Work Background: Provide details on your work history, including any attempts to return to work and their outcomes.
Tips for Undergoing A Mental Health Evaluation
How you approach the mental health evaluation can affect the outcome of your disability claim. Here are some helpful tips:
- Answer All Questions: Respond accurately to every question to give the examiner a clear picture of your mental health.
- Be Specific: Clearly describe your symptoms instead of just stating your condition. For instance, detail feelings of sadness, changes in appetite, or difficulties with concentration.
- Stay Focused: Only answer the questions asked; don’t volunteer additional information unless prompted. If you don’t understand a question, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
- Be Honest: Avoid exaggerating or downplaying your symptoms. Professionals can often identify inauthentic responses, which could harm your credibility.
- Fully Express Limitations: Communicate your struggles with daily activities without embarrassment, as this helps the examiner understand your challenges.
- Perform Your Best: Approach these assessments honestly. Demonstrating your true condition is crucial for an accurate evaluation.
Preparing and being mindful of these areas can contribute to a smoother and more accurate mental health evaluation process.
No Disability Case is Too Tough for Our Social Security Disability Lawyers
Dealing with the Social Security Disability claim process can be complicated and confusing, especially when it comes to mental health evaluations. Knowing the types of evaluations and the questions you’ll face is essential for presenting your case effectively. At Kerr Robichaux and Carroll, we are dedicated to helping our clients secure the benefits they deserve. Our trusted legal team will support you every step of the way, ensuring that your unique situation is clearly communicated to the SSA.
We understand the challenges associated with mental health conditions and are committed to advocating for your rights and maximizing your chances of approval. You don’t have to face this journey alone – let us stand by your side.
Contact us today by submitting a form online or calling our office at 503-255-9092 for a free case evaluation.