By Jeffrey Freedman
Article appeared in The Buffalo News on May 19, 2026
Individuals claiming Social Security Disability Insurance benefits typically struggle to prove their cases. Additionally, they have to survive without a paycheck until benefits are awarded while dealing with the challenges of their medical conditions.
Every applicant has problems − but few fight harder than those with the invisible disabilities presented by mental illnesses. SSDI claims based on mental illness are denied by the Social Security administration at almost twice the rate of denials for physical issues.
Evidence for mental illnesses is subjective, depending on statements from the claimant, treating professionals, family, friends, and former co-workers.
The course of mental illness does not go in a straight line. Conditions such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and severe anxiety disorders frequently involve fluctuating symptoms. SSDI mental health claims are typically based on concentration deficits, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, mood instability, severe fatigue due to depression or side effects from medication.
Many individuals with psychiatric disorders often minimize their struggles during clinical visits. A claimant could appear relatively stable during a medical appointment, yet remain unable to function consistently in a workplace. Insurance coverage for mental illnesses is usually limited, and there are often long waits to see providers.
Most SSDI claimants denied have a hearing before an administrative law judge, which can be very challenging. A claimant might say they occasionally shop for groceries, watch television, care for a pet, or interact with family members − and those judges may view this as evidence the individual can perform full-time work. Workplace demands are far greater than being able to function in the home.
This is not a call to lower standards, but to apply them more thoughtfully. Decision-makers should receive better training to understand how psychiatric conditions affect daily functioning.
Our disability system is meant to serve as a safety net. For individuals with mental health conditions, that net remains too fragile. Ensuring fairness in these cases is not just sound policy, it is a basic matter of dignity and justice.
