Depression SSDI Checklist: Records That Show How Depression Affects Work

Reviewed by Gretchen Johnson, J.D., LL.M.

A diagnosis is just page one. Social Security wants to see how depression shows up in your actual day.

Which records should I collect?

• A diagnosis from a psychiatrist or psychologist
• Therapy notes
• Every medicine you've tried, and how it went
• Hospital or crisis visits
• PHQ-9 scores over time

What shows the impact on work?

• Your doctor's view on focus, attendance and stress
• Missed days, warnings or job losses
• A few words from family about what's changed

Do your notes keep saying "stable"?

Stable often means "not getting worse." It doesn't mean "ready to work." Ask your provider to describe your real limits.