Can You Get SSDI for Conversion Disorder?
TL;DR: Yes. Conversion disorder, now called functional neurological symptom disorder (FND), causes real neurological symptoms like paralysis, seizures, blindness, or inability to speak that are not explained by a neurological disease. The SSA evaluates FND under Listing 12.07 (somatic symptom and related disorders) or under the neurological listings if the symptoms match specific criteria. The key challenge is proving the symptoms are genuine and persistent, since the condition carries a stigma of being "psychological" rather than "real."
Conversion disorder produces symptoms that look exactly like neurological disease. Non-epileptic seizures, limb weakness, tremor, difficulty walking, speech problems, and vision loss are all common presentations. These symptoms are involuntary and the person is not faking them. The brain is generating real neurological dysfunction even though there is no structural damage visible on MRI or other tests.
SSA Listings for Conversion Disorder
| SSA Listing | Condition | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 12.07 | Somatic symptom and related disorders | Neurological symptoms not explained by medical condition, plus marked limitation in 2 Paragraph B areas |
| 11.02 | Epilepsy (convulsive) | If non-epileptic seizures meet frequency criteria |
| 11.14 | Peripheral neuropathy | If functional weakness meets motor dysfunction criteria |
Medical Evidence the SSA Needs
- Neurologist diagnosis with positive clinical signs of FND (Hoover sign, tremor entrainment, etc.)
- EEG during seizure-like episodes confirming non-epileptic events
- Normal MRI and other neurological tests ruling out structural disease
- Psychiatric or psychological evaluation
- Video of functional seizures or movement abnormalities if available
- Documentation of functional limitations from the neurological symptoms
- Treatment records: physical therapy, CBT, medication trials
Common Denial Reasons
- Viewed as "not real." Despite being a recognized medical condition, some SSA reviewers still dismiss FND. Having a neurologist confirm the diagnosis with positive clinical signs helps.
- Normal neurological tests cited. Normal MRI and EEG are expected in FND. Your records should explain that these are consistent with the diagnosis, not evidence against it.
- Symptoms fluctuate. FND symptoms can vary day to day. Document the overall pattern and average level of limitation.
Compassionate Allowance
Conversion disorder does not qualify for Compassionate Allowance.
Function Report Tips
- Describe your neurological symptoms in detail: what happens during a seizure, how weakness affects you
- Explain that these are involuntary symptoms you cannot control
- Detail how episodes affect your safety and ability to be in a workplace
- Describe the unpredictability of symptoms and how it prevents reliable attendance
- Note any injuries from falls during episodes
FND claims need careful framing. ClaimPath generates SSA-compliant disability documents for $79, saving you the 25% attorney contingency.
Related Condition Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Get SSDI for Conversion Disorder??
TL;DR: Yes. Conversion disorder, now called functional neurological symptom disorder (FND), causes real neurological symptoms like paralysis, seizures, blindness, or inability to speak that are not explained by a neurological disease. The SSA evaluates FND under Listing 12.07 (somatic symptom and related disorders) or under the neurological listings if the symptoms match specific criteria.
What should I know about compassionate allowance?
Conversion disorder does not qualify for Compassionate Allowance.
What are the best practices for function report tips?
FND claims need careful framing. ClaimPath generates SSA-compliant disability documents for $79, saving you the 25% attorney contingency.