Question: Can I get disability because of fibromyalgia?
Answer: To address concentration issues, employers should consider: Providing written job instructions when possible Prioritizing job assignments and providing more structure Allowing flexible work hours and allowing a self-paced workload Allowing periodic rest periods to reorient Providing memory aids, such as schedulers or organizers Minimizing distractions Reducing job stress To address depression and anxiety, employers should consider: Reducing distractions in the work environment Providing to-do lists and written instructions Reminding the employee of important deadlines and meetings Allowing time off for counseling Providing clear expectations of responsibilities and consequences Providing sensitivity training to coworkers Allowing breaks to use stress management techniques Developing strategies to deal with work problems before they arise Allowing telephone calls during work hours to doctors and others for support Providing information on counseling and employee assistance programs To address fatigue and weakness, employers should consider: Reducing or eliminating physical exertion and workplace stress Scheduling periodic rest breaks away from the workstation Allowing a flexible work schedule and flexible use of leave time Allowing the employee to work from home Implementing ergonomic workstation design To address migraine headaches, employers should consider: Providing task lighting Eliminating fluorescent lighting Providing air purification devices Allowing flexible work hours and work from home Allowing periodic rest breaks To address issues associated with sleep problems, employers should consider: Allowing flexible work hours and frequent breaks Allowing the employee to work from home The Americans with Disabilities Act ( ADA) does not contain a list of medical conditions that constitute disabilities. Instead, the ADA has a general definition of disability that each person must meet. Therefore, some people with fibromyalgia will have a disability under the ADA and others will not. Because fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose -- typically, health care providers rule out other conditions through a physical exam and various blood tests -- it's important that you do your homework before you apply for disability. According to federal regulations, to qualify for disability you must prove that you have a severe impairment. You also need to prove that the impairment limits your physical or mental ability to do work. The Social Security disability regulations define disability as "the inability to do any substantial gainful activity due to your medical or mental problem." In addition, according to the Social Security Administration, your condition must interfere with basic work-related activities. If it doesn't, your claim won't be considered. Instead, Social Security will find that you are not disabled. The combined effect of having multiple impairments is taken into account. That can be important for many people with fibromyalgia. You must be unable to do your previous work or any other substantial gainful activity. Your age and education are considered, as well as your remaining abilities and your work experience.