Social Security Disability benefits are designed to provide financial support to those who are unable to work due to a disability. However, not all disabilities are created equal, and some are much harder to prove than others. In this article, we will discuss some of the hardest types of disabilities to prove in order to qualify for Social Security Disability.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is one of the most difficult disabilities to prove because it is not visible. There are no tests or X-rays that can show the severity of someone’s pain. In order to qualify for Social Security Disability based on chronic pain, an applicant must provide extensive medical documentation that proves the severity of their pain and its impact on their ability to work.

You do, however, have a better chance at approval if your chronic pain is a result of a musculoskeletal system disorder (spine and joint disorders), which include back injuries, osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, and others. You should consult with an SSDI attorney in order to determine if your chronic pain will be eligible. 

Mental Illness

Mental illness is another difficult disability to prove for Social Security Disability. This is because mental illnesses are often invisible and can be difficult to diagnose. Additionally, mental illnesses can vary greatly in severity, making it challenging to determine whether someone is truly unable to work due to their condition.

You do, however, have a better chance at approval if your mental illness derives from neurocognitive disorders, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, and others. 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition that causes extreme fatigue and a host of other symptoms. However, there are no tests or diagnostic criteria for CFS, making it difficult to prove. Those with CFS often face skepticism from medical professionals and may struggle to get a proper diagnosis, let alone qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.

You do, however, have a higher chance of approval if your chronic fatigue is a symptom of endocrinological or hematological diseases. Some endocrinological diseases include hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, diabetes, and others, while some hematological diseases include anemia, hemophilia, sickle cell disease, and others.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects millions of people in the United States. However, like chronic pain, there are no definitive tests or imaging studies that can diagnose fibromyalgia. Instead, a diagnosis is made based on a patient’s symptoms and medical history. This can make it difficult to prove the severity of someone’s condition and their inability to work.

You do, however, have a higher chance of approval if your chronic pain condition is a symptom of musculoskeletal pain caused by physical trauma, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, vertebra fractures, and more. 

Chronic Migraines

Chronic migraines can be extremely debilitating and make it difficult to work. However, like many of the other disabilities on this list, migraines are difficult to prove. This is because migraines are subjective and there are no definitive tests to confirm their severity. Additionally, migraines can vary greatly in their frequency and intensity, making it challenging to determine whether someone is truly unable to work due to their condition.

You do, however, have a higher chance of approval if your chronic migraines are a result of cardiovascular system disorders, such as aneurysms, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, and others. 

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung condition that can make it difficult to breathe. COPD can be caused by smoking or exposure to environmental toxins. However, like many of the other disabilities on this list, COPD can be difficult to prove. This is because the severity of the condition can vary greatly, and there are no definitive tests to confirm its impact on someone’s ability to work.

You do, however, have a higher chance of approval if your chronic pulmonary condition is a result of diseases such as asthma, mesothelioma, cystic fibrosis, and sleep apnea, among many others. 

In Summary

There are many types of disabilities that can make it difficult to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Chronic pain, mental illness, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic migraines, multiple sclerosis, and COPD are just a few examples. However, it’s important to remember that just because a disability is difficult to prove doesn’t mean it’s not real or that it doesn’t have a significant impact on someone’s life. If you are struggling to prove your disability, it may be helpful to work with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney who can guide you through the process and increase your chances of success.

While some of these disorders are difficult to have approved, you can still consult with a social security disability attorney to explore your options and receive the compensation you deserve. Click here to fill out our free, no-obligation social security disability consultation form or call (833) 613-0618.