Learn how physical impairments and chronic pain can affect emotional well-being and the ability to work. This video explains common emotional challenges, including difficulty concentrating, anxiety, depression, and stress, and offers guidance on discussing these limitations during a Social Security Disability hearing.

Transcript

Many people with serious physical problems develop emotional aspects to their physical impairments, especially if they have been in pain for a long time.

This development is so common that it is surprising to find someone with a long-term physical problem who does not also have some emotional problem.

However, many people who suffer from physical impairments are afraid to talk about this emotional component of pain for fear that they will be viewed as crazy.

Having such problems does not mean you are crazy. It probably means you are normal. At your hearing, it is important for you to be willing and able to describe to the judge any emotional problems you have.

It is often the emotional aspect of pain that most interferes with the ability to work. Common problems include difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, nervousness, a quick temper, difficulty getting along with others, crying spells, and depression.

If you have some of these problems, the judge or your attorney may ask about your ability to understand, carry out, and remember instructions; make judgments; respond to supervisors and co-workers; and deal with changes in a routine work setting.

You may be asked how well you handle stress, which you must remember is a very individual reaction. If the judge asks about stress, be sure to tell the judge what you find stressful, especially regarding work matters.

Sometimes claimants have trouble putting their fingers on exactly what it is about their work that they find stressful. Here are some examples: meeting deadlines, completing job tasks, working with others, dealing with the public, working quickly, trying to work with precision, doing complex tasks, making decisions, being criticized by supervisors, the monotony of routine, remaining at work for a full day, and fear of failure at work.

Think about whether you find any of these things particularly stressful. If so, discuss them with your lawyer before your hearing.

Toll-Free: 800-868-0400

Local: 843-667-0400