Did you apply for Social Security disability benefits for a mental condition and are now waiting for your psychological evaluation?
Facing a psychological assessment can be nerve-wracking.
You don’t know what the test is about, how long it will take, or what to expect.
On top of that, you wonder if a misstep during your evaluation can cost you your benefits.
That is enough to stress anyone.
Thankfully, many applicants have taken this test before, and we have all their insight on Social Security psychological evaluations. Keep reading to find out more, and attend your assignment with confidence and peace of mind.
Does The SSA Request Psychological Evaluations?
When applying for Social Security disability benefits for a psychological, mental, or emotional condition, the Social Security Administration (SSA) might request you to take a psychological evaluation by a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist.
These types of tests are called consultative examinations. They are primarily for applicants who base their claim on a mental impairment but have received little to no mental health treatment recently.
That’s because the SSA disability examiners are required to base their final decisions on up-to-date medical information.
This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t seek medical assistance before filing your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim. Having a solid record of mental health care professionals and tests supporting your condition will smooth the process and increase your chances of securing disability benefits.
What to Expect: Different Types of Mental Assessments
The SSA uses different mental tests to assess an applicant’s mental capacity and condition. The overall goal of the psychological evaluation is to gather insight on the following metrics:
- Verbal Comprehension: This score reflects your verbal communication and reasoning abilities, as well as your level of knowledge regarding society and culture.
- Perceptual Reasoning: This area indicates your ability to interpret, organize, and resolve visual and spatial puzzles.
- Processing Speed: This test measures your mental and motor speed and shows how well you can engage in visual-motor coordination.
- Working Memory: This test area assesses your potential to maintain attention, concentration, and mental focus.
- Emotional state: If you have anxiety, depression, or have suffered a traumatic event, you might need to take a test to evaluate your emotional state.
- Behavior and Personality: The SSA may request to observe your behavior for a period of time, perhaps while you perform other tests. They might also get information on your personality from family, friends, or healthcare providers.
There are a wide variety of psychological tests the SSA might request to assess your disability. These are just a few of the most common ones:
Mental Evaluation
One of the most common tests to prove applicants have a mental disability is a mental evaluation by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist. The health care professional will ask questions regarding your impairment and symptoms, analyze your behavior, and give their opinion on your condition.
Standardized Psychological Tests
Another option is standardized psychological tests to evaluate your mental condition. Here, besides asking questions, a certified professional will have you perform a list of tasks, such as in a regular school test.
The doctor will score and interpret your condition based on your answers, test results, and behavior during the evaluation.
Neuropsychological Tests
If your mental condition affects other parts of your body, a neuropsychological test can strengthen your disability claim. This evaluation will help you prove your impairment affects your motor speed, coordination, sensation, or perception. It can show how the disability and its symptoms have a negative impact on your daily life and your ability to perform your job.
Memory Tests
The Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) memory test is sometimes used for claimants reporting short-term memory loss. This test is usually for people who’ve had a stroke, brain injury, or a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
Competency Evaluation
A competency psychological test is a straightforward evaluation done by a licensed professional to assess your mental ability to make important legal, financial, and personal decisions. This test will help the SSA employees who review your case determine if you are competent to have a job, earn a living, and manage your finances.
5 Tips to Prepare for Your Social Security Psychological Evaluation
How you handle your Social Security psychological evaluation will impact the outcome of your disability claim. Here are 5 tips to keep in mind and make the best out of your mental assessment:
- Answer all the questions: The test will give the examiner and the SSA a clear picture of your mental health. They will use that information to determine your eligibility for disability benefits. Take your time to answer all the questions as accurately as you can.
- Be specific: It’s not enough to tell the psychologist that you have anxiety, PTSD, or other mental impairment. You must be as detailed as possible and use appropriate language to describe the condition.
- Be honest: Never lie during your psychological evaluation. Providing false information about your condition can hurt your credibility, compromise your eligibility, and even lead to penalties.
- Don’t hold back: The mental evaluation is your chance to prove the severity of your health condition. While you shouldn’t exaggerate your situation, don’t hold back any relevant information during the assessment. Don’t be embarrassed to let the examiner know you struggle with daily activities like cooking, shopping, or managing your money.
- Consult with a lawyer: One of the best ways to face your evaluation with confidence is by working with an Indianapolis disability attorney. Besides preparing you for the test, the attorney will give you details about the exact evaluation you must take and provide tailored tips to enhance your chances of securing disability benefits.
Final Thoughts
Psychological evaluations are a crucial step in your Social Security disability claim. Whether the SSA requests the exam or you decide to take it independently to support your condition, a solid medical evaluation can strengthen your claim. Be prepared and follow the tips from this guide to put yourself one step closer to the benefits you deserve.