Imagine you're struggling to work due to a debilitating mental health condition like severe anxiety or depression. You've also developed an alcohol or drug addiction while trying to cope with your symptoms. You know you need Social Security disability benefits to stay afloat financially, but you're worried that your substance use will disqualify you from getting the support you need.
At the law office of Phillip M. Hendry, we understand the complicated relationship between addiction and disability. Our experienced Louisiana SSDI lawyer is here to help you navigate the Social Security disability claims process and get the benefits you deserve, even if substance use is part of your medical history.
How the SSA Evaluates Substance Use in Disability Claims
The Social Security Administration recognizes that many people with disabling conditions also struggle with drug or alcohol addiction. However, the agency has specific rules for how substance use affects SSDI eligibility.
The key question is whether your addiction is a "contributing factor" to your disability. In other words, the SSA looks at whether your medical condition would still be disabling if you stopped using drugs or alcohol.
Here's how it works:
- If substance use is the only impairment, you won't qualify for disability benefits. The addiction must occur alongside another physical or mental condition.
- If substance use is a contributing factor, the SSA will evaluate whether your other medical conditions would still prevent you from working if you stopped using drugs or alcohol.
- If your other conditions are independently disabling, you can qualify for SSDI even with a history of addiction. However, you'll need to provide clear medical evidence.
Let's look at an example: John is a 45-year-old construction worker who has been unable to work due to chronic back pain and depression. He also has a history of opioid addiction after being prescribed painkillers for his injury.
The SSA will look at whether John's back condition and depression are severe enough to prevent him from working on their own. If his limitations continue even without opioid use, he could still qualify for SSDI. However, if the addiction is determined to be a contributing factor to his disability, benefits would be denied.
Documenting Your Disability with a History of Substance Use
If you have a history of drug or alcohol addiction, you'll need to work closely with your medical providers to build a strong disability claim. Focus on documenting your other physical and mental health conditions and how they affect your ability to function.
Some important types of evidence include:
- Diagnosis of your medical conditions from qualified physicians or psychologists
- Records of your symptoms, clinical findings, and lab results over time
- Treatment history, including therapy, medications, surgeries, and hospitalizations
- Statements from your doctors about your limitations and restrictions
- Results of diagnostic tests that support all diagnoses
- Results of functional assessments showing how your condition impacts work-related activities
You'll also need to show that you're following your doctor's recommended treatment for both your disabling condition and your substance use disorder. Failing to comply with treatment can harm your credibility and result in a denied claim.
In addition, be prepared to discuss your substance use openly and honestly with the SSA. Trying to hide your addiction can backfire and damage your case. Instead, focus on demonstrating that your other conditions are severely limiting on their own.
The Importance of Substance Abuse Treatment in Your Disability Claim
Consistent, ongoing substance abuse treatment is not only crucial for your health and well-being but also for the success of your SSDI claim. Demonstrating that you are actively engaged in treatment for your addiction shows the SSA that you are doing your part to improve your condition and mitigate the impact of substance use on your disability.
Failing to comply with recommended substance abuse treatment can seriously damage your credibility and lead the SSA to question the severity of your other medical conditions. Make every effort to follow your treatment plan, take prescribed medications, attend therapy appointments, and make healthy lifestyle choices in support of your recovery.
Getting Help from a Louisiana Disability Lawyer
SSDI claims are challenging under any circumstances, but adding a history of substance use to the mix can make the process even more daunting. An experienced Louisiana disability lawyer can be a powerful advocate in your corner.
At the law office of Phillip M. Hendry, we know the SSDI system inside and out. We'll make sure you understand the rules around substance use and disability. We'll also help you build the strongest possible claim with comprehensive medical evidence and compelling arguments. Together, we'll develop a plan to move your life forward.