Applying for SSD Benefits with Severe Migraines

Many people living with severe migraine face many challenges. It’s not just the debilitating pain that can make it hard to function in daily life. Often, there’s a lack of understanding among those who do not have migraines. It can be impossible to explain how a migraine feels and why it is such a barrier to physical wellbeing.

If you do suffer from migraines, there may be help available. In addition to what you may receive from your doctor, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits. This offers financial support when your illness stops you from doing the work you would otherwise want to do.

A common headache goes away. Even those who have the occasional migraine can navigate the condition by making lifestyle changes, such as taking a few days off of work. But for those with severe migraine, this just is not an option. Frequently, a severe migraine does not respond to medication. Many people suffer daily attacks, or have migraine episodes that last for days at time.

As even those who do not experience migraines can imagine, this can make a normal working life almost impossible. For those with migraines, the financial and social cost is very real. Some can manage, while others should not hesitate to ask for help.

Do Migraine Sufferers Qualify for SSD?

The federal government supports those with various medical conditions through the social security disability program. These are separate from the disability benefits you may get through your state administration or your employer. In fact, your workplace may require you to apply for SSD before you can access private benefits.

Seeking SSD benefits helps in other ways. You may gain access to Medicare, which can help with your medical bills. Having SSD approval can also mean a larger entitlement of social security income when you retire. But most of all, SSD benefits can give you a level of comfort when you are living day-to-day with a challenging illness.

The Social Security Administration maintains a list of conditions that automatically qualify for SSD. This is called the “blue book.” Although “migraine” is not specifically listed, those living with the ailment may still qualify for benefits. The process is just a bit different. Applicants have to demonstrate that they are limited in their ability to carry on meaningful employment because of their health status.

It is unfortunate that many legitimate migraine sufferers are turned down for SSD when they first apply. In many ways, it is also understandable. Applicants have to provide proof of their medical status, which can mean doctor’s reports and detailed accounts of how having migraines affect their daily life. In other words, it’s a lot of paperwork to gather when your life is already on hold.

Fortunately, a disability benefits lawyer can work with you to get through the SSD process. This is essential at all stages, whether it’s your first application or an appeal. You can ask the SSA to take a second look at your case if you are denied.

When you are already living with a debilitating illness, fighting the SSA for benefits can be too much to bear. The lawyers at The Good Law Group focus exclusively on helping people like you. To learn more about applying for benefits or appealing an SSD case denial, contact us today.