Panic disorder or agoraphobia

Medical records that document a formal diagnosis of panic disorder and/or agoraphobia are the starting point. Records from psychiatrists, psychologists, or other treating providers that describe your specific symptoms, how often they occur, and how severe they are help establish which rating level fits your situation.

For the 30% level, records showing panic attacks occurring weekly or less often, chronic sleep impairment, depressed mood, or mild memory loss are relevant. For 50%, documentation of panic attacks more than once a week, impaired short- or long-term memory, impaired judgment, or difficulty maintaining work and social relationships matters. For 70%, records reflecting near-continuous panic, suicidal ideation, impaired impulse control, or inability to establish and maintain effective relationships are significant. For 100%, evidence of gross impairment in thought or communication, persistent danger of hurting yourself or others, or disorientation to time or place is relevant.

Statements from you or people who know you describing how symptoms affect your ability to work, complete daily tasks, and maintain relationships can also reflect the occupational and social impairment that separates one level from another.