Social Security Disability Benefits & Mental Illness
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes both certain physical and mental impairments as disabilities. An individual can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), depending on their individual situation.
Impairments are broken down into categories in the “Disability Evaluation Under Social Security”, commonly known as “the Blue Book”. These categories specify what requirements must be met in order to qualify for social security benefits.
Blue Book Mental Disorders
The SSA blue book section entitled “12.00 Mental Disorders – Adult” lists mental disorders in 11 categories. These various types of disabilities include common mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, and various personality disorders.
- Neurocognitive Disorders (includes dementia and dementia-related conditions)
- Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders
- Depressive, Bipolar, and Related Disorders
- Intellectual Disorder
- Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders
- Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders
- Personality and Impulse-Control Disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders (includes learning disorders and Tourette syndrome)
- Eating Disorders
- Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders (includes PTSD)
Some conditions may fall under multiple categories, which may affect how they are evaluated. We highly recommend you speak with a Social Security disability benefits attorney to determine the best approach for your specific case.
How to Qualify for Disability Benefits
Regardless of your medical condition, you must meet the criteria established by the SSA to be approved for disability benefits. Some of these include:
- Your ability to function on a day to day basis
- Your ability to work and earn gainful employment
- Whether or not your condition is long-term (at least 12 months)
How your condition affects your daily life is a major part of disability claim. The more evidence you include, the better, as the burden of proof falls entirely on you. Having the support of an experienced disability attorney will give you the advantage necessary to prove your claim.
Medical Evidence
Providing thorough documentation from your general practitioner and any specialists you have seen will be extremely helpful for your case. Your attorney can help you decide if you want to have more testing done. This can help prove your disability, or it can rule out other conditions that might mimic your symptoms.
Documented Observations
If you require any type of regular assistance at home or work, written observations from those individuals can be helpful. Objective statements from mental health professionals like therapists or counselors can also be invaluable.
Disability Benefits Support
If you would like help with your disability application or appeal, contact the Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates. We have the experience and expertise to help you get the benefits you need. Call today to schedule your free consultation with a Social Security benefits attorney.
