Dealing with something like chronic fatigue can be frustrating. You may get the sense that people around you are skeptical or at least do not understand what you’re going through. This is especially true when you find yourself unable to work or engage in the activities that you wish you could do.
But is this a disability, and can you get government benefits for chronic fatigue? Is it possible to get Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits due to your condition?
The role of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
The answer largely depends on your medical diagnosis. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a real medical disorder that is widely recognized — if not publicly understood as well as you may hope. Those with CFS may be able to successfully apply for disability benefits.
That said, not everyone with CFS is unable to work. A case-by-case examination may be required. Some people can still work, just with altered schedules or conditions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to allow you to be as productive as any other employee, despite your medical condition.
For others, though, nothing like this is possible. CFS can simply be so severe that any type of consistent work is out of the question. That is when benefits may be needed so that you can still make ends meet. CFS can be viewed, in this light, the same way as any other disorder that makes it so you cannot maintain a job or a career. It’s out of your control and you deserve benefits as a result.
How to apply for SSD benefit for chronic fatigue
The application process for SSD can be complicated and denials are common. Make sure you know exactly what steps to take to minimize the problems you may face. If your claim has already been denied once, it may be time to seek legal assistance.