Can Obesity Qualify Me For SSDI?

If you are suffering from obesity, you might find that being obese is a limiting condition. It may be difficult to work and you might suffer from other health conditions as a result of being obese. However, obesity cannot be the primary condition that you use to justify obtaining SSDI (social security disability insurance) benefits.

Obesity and Other Conditions

Obesity can be a result of another underlying condition. Also, suffering from obesity can affect your functional capacity to work. For example, you might be fatigued due to an underlying condition and your obesity might also contribute to your fatigue.

Mental Health

If you are suffering from severe depression, this can lead you to be qualified for disability. Depression can contribute to obesity and obesity can lead to you becoming depressed. Mental health conditions such as depression can qualify you for SSDI. 

Morbid Obesity

Obesity is such a common feature for those with SSDI that over half of those who are on SSDI are obese. This is especially common for those who are over the age of 35. Obesity is not considered a disability. Instead, it is considered a risk factor that increases your odds of developing another disability. This is even the case if you are suffering from morbid obesity. 

Morbid obesity is a condition in which you have a BMI of 40 or more. When you have this condition, you are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea, diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and heart disease. You may also struggle with mobility and chronic pain issues. If any of these conditions make it more difficult for you to work, contact a disability attorney if you are turned down for SSDI.

Having Only One Qualifying Condition

If you have two or more qualifying conditions, you are much more likely to be eligible for SSDI. However, even if you don't have two qualifying conditions, you might still be eligible. If you are not sure if you can qualify, it's important to speak with a disability attorney. The majority of SSDI claims are turned down on the first try, but that doesn't mean that you should stop trying.

The SSA will typically ask you questions about your daily life. For example, you may be asked if you are able to get dressed, bathe, shop, prepare food, and brush your teeth. If you are struggling to perform day-to-day activities, this is often used as evidence that you are eligible for SSDI.

To learn more about SSDI eligibility, contact a disability attorney in your area.