Our nation’s Social Security system has come under heavy scrutiny after lawmakers stated the program’s budget could face shortfalls as early as this year. One particular legislator, Senator Rand Paul, recently stated the program could use reforms, considering, “over half the people on disability are either anxious or their back hurts.”
The statement leaves many people wondering just how many Social Security Disability benefit recipients suffer from anxiety or a back pain disability. An article from The Tampa Bay Times’ Politifact.com broke down the numbers.
In 2013, 30.5 percent of workers who received Social Security benefits were afflicted with a “disease of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue”. Another 4 percent of workers were categorized under “injuries”, which could also include back pain. Unfortunately for Senator Paul, there are many diseases and conditions that fall under these categories, which means only a very small portion of cases that are approved for Musculoskeletal disorders are likely for back pain.
The same situation arises when the numbers were crunched for the claims stemming from anxiety. While 31.5 percent of recipients of Social Security Disability suffered a mental disorder, less than 4 percent suffer a condition that could include anxiety.
So what do these numbers mean? They mean Senator Paul’s statements may not necessarily be true. It also shows it may be wise to speak with an attorney if you’re considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits and have questions regarding the process.
At Newlin Disability, we can get you the answers you need concerning your rights to Social Security Disability benefits. Our legal team is standing by to speak with you anytime—just call (800) 477-7315 and a Social Security Disability lawyer from our firm will help you.
