Diagnosis And Ssdi

[Chris A]

I applied for SSDI. I saw my doctor today. She and I spent about 2 hours talking. Shes filling out some questionaire my attorney gave me, and I was told to come in any time even without an appointment and she will treat me. I was given my diagnosis sheet, and do not understand it.

Axis I: 309.81 Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Axis II: Diagnosis Deferred on Axis II
Axis III: Blank
Axis IV: Problems related to Social Environment.
Axis V: Current GAF 45

She prescribed:
Xanax 2mg/twice daily
Saphris 10mg/twice daily
Trazodone 150mg/twice daily
Cymbalta 60mg/daily

She suggested that I be hospitalized until I was stable. I do not want that. My question is this... I applied for SSDI, I'm scared to death their going to deny me. Is my diagnosis eligible for SSDI????? Anyone with SSDI experience that would help would be greatly apprecieted Chris

 

[Ted Moen]

You should have no problem with a GAF of 45 (mine was 55) and a primary diagnosis of PTSD, and a lawyer that is familiar with SSD processes. The SSD people may sent you to their shrink, who will likely say the problem is something other than PTSD, and that your problem doesn't necessarily prevent you from employment. Let your lawyer handle your response to that. Hospitalization is good for the SSD process, but not necessary, so that's your call. Participation in group and individual therapy and inpatient PTSD programs also can lend supporting evidence, and are also helpful with learning to live better with PTSD.

The key in the SSD process is the finding that you are unemployable, and their definition of what constitutes unemployable is very specific. Your lawyer will be knowledgable of the current definition and package your presentation at the hearing (if it goes to a hearing) accordingly.

Take care,

Ted