Does Social Security Grant Disability Benefits for Borderline Personality Disorder?

Does Social Security Grant Disability Benefits for Borderline Personality Disorder?

Personality disorders like borderline personality disorder and oppositional defiance disorder are just two of 10 personality disorders recognized by the American Psychological Association. Symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD) include emotional instability, recurrent suicidal ideation/attempts at suicide, overdependence on others and manipulative behavior. People with BPD often have dysfunctional relationships and trouble keeping jobs because they do not get along with others. In addition, many individuals diagnosed with BPD also suffer substance abuse issues.

Can Someone Get Disability Benefits for Borderline Personality Disorder?

The Social Security Administration’s Blue Book of qualifying medical conditions lists BPD under “impulse control and personality disorders”. The SSA requires applications for BPD or oppositional defiant disorder disability benefits show pervasive patterns of at least one of the following:

• Suspiciousness and distrust of others
• Detachment from relationships
• Disregard for other people’s rights
• Interpersonal relationship instability
• Excessively emotional, attention-seeking behavior
• Feelings of low self-esteem and inadequacy
• Preoccupation with orderliness and/or perfectionism
• Recurring episodes of aggressive/impulsive outbursts

What Kind of Documentation Does the SSA Want to Approve Disability Benefits for BPD?

Claimants will need to submit clinical reports and results of psychological tests proving their personality disorder is “persistent and serious” and was diagnosed at least two years prior to applying for SSDI or SSI. Evidence of BPD should come reports completed by psychologists, psychiatrists, mental health counselors and even law enforcement if the person has had documented encounters with the police due to their personality disorder. Paperwork must also prove the claimant has extreme difficulty adjusting to new situations and exhibits a minimal capacity to conform to environmental demands and/or changes. Proof that the claimant has trouble holding down employment will also be considered when the SSA determines whether to approve or disapprove disability benefits for people with borderline or oppositional defiant disorder.

A Disability Attorney Can Help You Get Approved for SSDI or SSI

People diagnosed with personality disorders severe enough to prevent them from working typically go through an extensive denial-appeal-denial-appeal process before they are approved, if ever. The disability attorneys at London Disability have many years of experience assisting clients with getting their disability claims approved the first time they are submitted. That’s because they know exactly what the SSA wants to see in regards to documentation. Call our disability law firm today to schedule a consultation appointment if you are planning to file a disability claim for a personality disorder.