It’s not just a headache. Anyone who has ever experienced the debilitating pain of a migraine will agree that your world comes to a crashing halt, and there is little you can do except to ride it out. Millions of people suffer from chronic migraines, and many like you have symptoms that are so severe they can’t get out of bed. Often, these symptoms occur several times a month.
You probably have well-meaning friends and family who offer suggestions of herbal teas or suggest you get an MRI. They are likely not telling you anything you haven’t already tried, and you may have a file of documentation to prove it. If your migraines have gotten to the point where they are severely interfering with your ability to work, you may be thinking about applying for Social Security Disability Insurance.
Helping yourself get the help you need
Obtaining disability benefits is rarely easy, and gaining approval for an “invisible” condition can be even harder. In fact, Social Security denies about 70 percent of all SSDI applications. However, there may be ways to improve your chances of acceptance, and thus your chances of getting the financial support you need while you are unable to work.
In addition to meeting the basic requirements for a disabling condition according to SSDI rules, it could be important to have the support of your doctor. You may also want to do the following to try to help your cause:
- Gather medical records from every doctor and specialist you have seen.
- Obtain results from all lab work, MRIs, CT scans and other tests that were part of your diagnosis.
- Review the records so you can prepare to dispute any negative comments.
- Collect details about your medications, procedures, alternative treatments, hospital stays and other methods for seeking relief, both past and present.
- Describe in detail the level of disability you experience daily because of your migraines.
Your family and friends could contribute to your cause as well. They may include their own testimonies of how your migraines have impacted your life. It could be important, especially if you need to appeal a denial of benefits, to have your loved ones speak up for you.
Another important advocate can be a legal representative. Attorneys with experience in fighting for Social Security benefits provide can provide guidance on the process and what might be able to be done to strengthen your chances for a positive outcome.
