Can Anxiety be a Disability? What you Need to Know Before You Apply

The short answer is yes, Anxiety can be a disability. Anxiety can escalate to a level where one is unable to...

Addiction
March 21, 2025

The short answer is yes, Anxiety can be a disability. Anxiety can escalate to a level where one is unable to leave home and function in the community. 

Anxiety can make it impossible to maintain employment, drive a car, and interact with others. Anxiety can take away from ones ability to perform the expected daily tasks of an adult. Suffering from an anxiety disorder is a miserable experience. 

But

Types of Disability Insurance:

1.  SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

  • Cannot work on " a regular and sustained basis"
  • No more than $2,000 in assets if single, no more than $3,000 in assets if married. (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, 2020).
  • As of 2020, the monthly payment for SSI is $783for a single person, and $1185 for a couple (Social Security, 2020).

2.  SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)

  • Unable to work for the past 12 months
  • Must have paid into FICA taxes for 10 years. (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, 2020).
  • As of 2020, the maximum monthly payment is $ 3,011 (Laurence, 2020). 

The Realities of Life on SSDI 

 Before applying, there are some things to consider:

  • For a young person, living on disability can be an especially depressing, ostracizing, lonely and miserable experience. The expectation for young adults in their prime is to work to support themselves and contribute to society. It is a source of shame when someone asks what do you do? and you don't have an answer.

  • Living on Disability means you don't have a place to get up and go to in the morning. A job is so much more than a source of income. A job is a time anchor in your day. It is a reason to get out of bed in the morning. It is a reason to shower, shampoo, shave, dress up, and make ourselves look presentable.

  • The workplace is a place to interact and connect with other people, which is essential for our mental health. It is a place to learn new information or skills, and to grow. You will be missing out on a lot.

  • For an older person, it will bring different burdens. As you get into your 30's and 40's, the expectation is that you are providing for yourself and your family. To not work is going to shatter one's self image as a provider
  • The income you will be given on disability will not be as much as you can earn from working. It will become difficult to meet your expenses. You will not be able to save or invest, because living on Disability means you cannot own significant assets

Alternatives To Consider 

1.  Don't give up and surrender to anxiety. Get effective treatment. Anxiety disorders are among the most treatable psychiatric disorders. They can be well managed so that you can function in the workplace.

2.  Go on short-term disability, which is SSI. Spend three to six months focusing on treatment and getting better, then return to work.

3.  Do as much to support yourself as you can, and to retain as much independence as possible. Consider SSI, which is basically partial disability, and a get a part time job.

4.  Explore alternatives such as freelancing or day labor. With anxiety, you will have good days and bad days, Work when you can, to the best of your ability.

5.  Change careers. Identify your source of distress and look for a job with minimal triggers. There are jobs where you will have minimal interaction with the public or co-workers, or where travel is not required. 

Anxiety is a serious psychological disorder, which can be disabling in it's worst forms. But it is also treatable.  Accepting disability can make life worse.  

Laurence, K.B. (2020). Disability Secrets. NOLO. Retrieved April 11, 2020 from https://www.disabilitysecrets.com/how-much-in-ssd.html

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. (2020). Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits & Supplemental Security Income. Retrieved April 11, 2020 from https://www.nami.org/Find-Support/Living-with-a-Mental-Health-Condition/Social-Security-Disability-Insurance-Benefits-Su

Social Security. (2020). SSI Federal Payment Amounts for 2020. Retrieved April 11, 2020 from https://www.ssa.gov/oact/cola/SSI.html

Jofee-Walt, C. (n.a.) Unfit for Work: The startling rise of disability in America Retrieved April 11, 2020 from https://apps.npr.org/unfit-for-work/

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Addiction

How is alcohol abuse different from alcoholism?

Alcoholism refers to a disease that is characterized by a strong craving for alcohol and an inability to control one's drinking.

What is alcohol abuse?

Alcohol abuse is a pattern of drinking that leads to problems in one's personal, professional, or social life.

What are the signs of alcohol abuse?

Some common signs of alcohol abuse include drinking more than intended, neglecting responsibilities, and continuing to drink despite negative consequences

Can alcohol abuse be overcome?

Yes, alcohol abuse is a treatable condition. However, it often requires professional treatment to overcome. With the right support, though, anyone can overcome alcohol abuse and regain control of their life. It's important to reach out for help if you or someone you know is struggling. With the right treatment, anyone can overcome alcohol abuse and regain control of their life.

What is the treatment for alcoholism?

Treatment for alcohol abuse often includes counseling, support groups, and medication. With the right help, your spouse can recover from alcoholism and go on to lead a healthy and happy life.

How do I deal with my loved one's addiction?

Dealing with someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol can be difficult. It is important to remember that addiction is a disease, and the addict is not responsible for their behavior. You can offer support and understanding, but it is important to set boundaries. You can also get help for yourself through therapy or counseling.