Managing the stress of a denied SSDI claim

A denial of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can be overwhelming, especially given that – by very virtue of your application – you are struggling with a medical condition that prevents you from working. The financial strain of this turn of events, uncertainty about the future and frustration of dealing with the Social Security Administration (SSA) can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. 

While it is natural to feel discouraged, it is important to remember that many initial claims are denied and that there are steps you can take to appeal the decision. One of the first steps in managing stress after an SSDI denial is to understand why your claim was rejected. The SSA typically denies claims for reasons such as:

• Lack of sufficient medical evidence to prove disability
• Failure to follow prescribed treatments
• The condition is not expected to last 12 months or longer
• The applicant is still capable of performing some type of work

Receiving a denial does not mean that you are ineligible for benefits. Many claims are initially denied due to missing information or insufficient medical documentation, both of which can be addressed in the appeals process.

Next steps 

Regaining a sense of control after a denial can help reduce stress. Instead of focusing on the rejection, shift your attention to what can be done next. The SSA allows claimants to appeal within 60 days of receiving a denial letter. The appeals process includes several levels:

1. Request for Reconsideration – A new examiner reviews your claim to determine if an error was made.
2. Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing – If the reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing where you can present additional evidence and testimony.
3. Appeals Council Review – If the ALJ denies the claim, you can request a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council.
4. Federal Court Appeal – As a last resort, you can take your case to federal court.

Coping with an SSDI denial can feel isolating, but you do not have to go through the process alone. Seeking legal guidance and support is always an option.