HOW A PSYCHOLOGICAL DISORDER MAY GET YOU APPROVED EVEN IF YOU CAN DO "SOME WORK."

Usually Social Security will deny disability applicants under age 50 who can still perform "some work," meaning sedentary or light unskilled jobs.

However, exertion levels aside, a mental or psychological impairment may preclude even jobs that are considered "easier" in terms of their physical or exertional demands.

Let's use the example of a 37 year-old individual who sit, walk and stand without restrictions and who can lift up to 20 pounds. This would make hundred of thousands of sedentary and light unskilled jobs available in the US economy. Social Security would deny disability because there are so many jobs this individual could perform. However, let's say this same individual has a severe psychological impairment, such as depression, panic disorder, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder (these are only a few examples). Why can't this person perform light or sedentary work, according to Social Security guidelines.

Here are examples of reasons this individual may not be able to work at "any job."

1. Would not be able to sustain the concentration, persistence and pace to do full-time work.

2. Will be off task an excessive amount of the time at work.

3. May not be able to respond appropriately to co-workers or supervisors.

4. Can't deal with the usual stress or adapt to minor changes in the workplace.

5. Cannot follow simple instructions.

6. Is unable to complete tasks in a timely manner

7. Cannot complete an 8-hour workday without unusual supervision or multiple extra breaks.

8. Would be absent more than 1 day per month due to psychological symptoms or exacerbations.

Of course, there must be validation of such allegations in the claimant's medical record. Preferably, a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist who has treated the claimant will be able to explain the severity of psychological symptoms and the workplace restrictions they cause.

The bottom line: Social Security must consider all of the claimant's impairments, whether they are mental or physical, or both. A claimant could be healthy physically but still be unable to work on a "regular and consistent basis" due to psychological impairments.