Every day, you face the unseen struggles of psoriasis. Far from what others think, psoriasis is not just an itchy skin rash. It means sleepless nights, relentless discomfort, restricted movement or even bleeding through clothes. These challenges can sap your strength, making it a struggle to get up and face a workday.
Persistent and severe flare-ups are starting to compromise your work, increasing concerns over job stability. If your psoriasis is impacting your ability to earn a living, consider exploring SSDI benefits.
How psoriasis can affect employment
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that results in an overproduction of skin cells that itch, sting or burn. Many individuals with psoriasis also have psoriatic arthritis (PA) which causes pain and stiffness in the joints. Beyond the skin, psoriasis can also affect other organs, such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and eyes.
At work, these symptoms are magnified. Resting your arms on the table to use a computer could aggravate any inflammation on your elbows. If psoriasis impacts your joints, it could be very painful and tiring to complete your work duties.
Although treatments can help make psoriasis manageable, the reality is that it is a lifelong condition. Over time, it might not only hurt your work performance but might also make it harder for you to retain steady employment. A study by the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) reveals that almost 50% of individuals with psoriasis miss work regularly, while others are unemployed or working part-time.
Is psoriasis a disability?
Psoriasis is not on the Social Security Administration (SSA) list of disabilities. However, the effects of psoriasis, such as severe skin lesions can qualify as dermatitis. If you have worked long enough and your condition meets the SSA’s definition of a disability, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
Pursuing SSDI benefits for psoriasis
Securing SSDI benefits can provide monthly cash payments that you can use to support yourself while you are unable to work. If you find yourself wanting or able to return to work later, the program allows you to take a trial period without losing benefits.
However, receiving an SSDI approval requires proving how your situation significantly limits your ability to perform work. A single doctor’s diagnosis may not cut it. It’s a lengthy, rigorous process that requires collecting extensive medical evidence, from a list of medications to lab test results to doctor’s reports.
The stress of trying to keep a job while dealing with psoriasis can become unbearable. Pursuing SSDI benefits could provide the support you need. If you face difficulties with your application, remember that help is available.