Applying for the NDIS with a Psychosocial Disability
How to apply for the NDIS with a psychosocial disability: evidencing functional impact and permanence for a fluctuating condition, and being believed.
Applying to the NDIS with a psychosocial disability can feel daunting, especially when your condition comes and goes. The good news is that you do not have to do it alone, and there are clear things that help. This guide explains how to show functional impact and permanence for a fluctuating condition, who can help gather evidence, and how to make sure your harder days are heard.
What the NDIS is looking for
Describing a fluctuating condition
Gathering your evidence
Getting help to apply
Being believed
Frequently asked questions
How do I prove a psychosocial disability is permanent if it fluctuates?
A fluctuating condition can still be permanent. 'Episodic' describes impact that comes and goes; 'permanent' describes an ongoing condition over time. Ask your treating team to explain that the underlying condition is long-term, and describe your average functioning across time, including harder…
What evidence should I include in my application?
Focus on functional impact — how your mental health affects everyday activities. Helpful evidence includes letters from your treating mental health team describing that impact, any functional assessment, and your own account of a typical week including the difficult parts. Descriptions of daily life…
Should I describe my good days or my bad days?
Describe both, but be sure to include your harder days and your average across time. Many people instinctively present their best selves, which can understate the support they need. Being honest about difficult periods is valid and important, and it gives the NDIS an accurate picture of your…
Who can help me apply?
You can ask an NDIS advocate, a community mental health worker, a peer worker, your GP or treating team, or a trusted family member. A Local Area Coordinator can also help you understand the process. Getting help is completely reasonable, and a support person can add their own observations to your…
What if my application is not successful?
It is not the end of the road. You can seek a review of the decision, and an advocate can help you do this calmly and put forward further evidence. It can help to look again at whether the functional impact of your condition was described clearly and fully, including your harder periods.