What to Expect at a Psychological Evaluation for Disability

A psychological evaluation is performed when a person who suffers from mental illness, chronic depression, anxiety disorders or learning disabilities cannot work and must apply for disability benefits. Although honesty is vital during the examination, having to undergo unknown rigorous testing may cause you anxiety and nervousness before you even arrive at the doctor's office. Knowing what to expect will allay your fears and keep you calm.

History

• You will be asked many questions pertaining to your personal history. Family history of mental illnesses or learning disabilities will be discussed, as well as your educational and work experience. You must divulge any past criminal history, mental health problems and substance abuse. Your doctor will write up a detailed medical history, including a diagnosis of your disability and specific instances of impairment, such as anxiety attacks, loss of memory, unusual hostility or moments of confusion.

Current Conditions

• You must answer questions about your daily life. This includes your current medications and any drug or alcohol use. Your doctor will ask about living arrangements and whether you can shop, cook, clean, pay bills and maintain proper hygiene independently and effectively. You may also answer questions about current work conditions and whether you can arrive at work on time, accomplish work-related tasks and work well with other people. Social factors, such as how you behave in a library or on public transportation, will also be considered.

Testing

• People with learning disabilities and other intellectual problems may need IQ testing. The doctor may ask you basic addition and subtraction questions, or the doctor may ask you to to begin at 100 and count backward by seven. The doctor may test your memory by asking you questions such as what you got for Christmas last year or what you did last Friday. The doctor may ask you to file index cards, disassemble and reassemble objects and look up phone numbers to test your ability to work. Depending on your disability, the doctor may also offer you Rorschach tests and other psychological, intellectual and physical tests.

Personality Assessment

• The examiner will assess your personality traits, along with your demeanor and attitude throughout the evaluation. The examiner will take notes on whether you become depressed, anxious, frustrated, hostile, or relaxed and happy during the testing.