The awareness of mental illness is continuing to increase across the country, as it should. Millions of people in the United States suffer from some type of mental illness. Many of these individuals suffer from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or other ailments that often make it difficult to perform their duties at work, much less be successful in the workplace. Luckily, those who can no longer work due to mental illness may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.
What mental disorders are eligible for SSDI?
To establish guidelines for SSDI qualifying conditions, the Social Security Administration uses what is known as the Blue Book. Section 12 of the Blue Book details what types of mental disorders and circumstances qualify for SSDI benefits. These include anxiety disorders, personality disorders, intellectual disabilities and autism-related disorders, among others.
Determining if a mental illness qualifies
For the Social Security Administration to consider a mental illness as a disability, the disorder must match one of the listings found in the Blue Book, as well as meet the listed medical requirements. Also, the mental health condition must be severe enough that it prevents the person from working on a full-time basis for at least one year. If these requirements are met, sufferers may start receiving SSDI benefits after completing the application process
Those who suffer from mental health conditions should first consult with a doctor and get treatment before applying for SSDI. Before granting benefits, the Social Security Administration requires proof and medical documentation. Those who suffer from mental conditions and want to learn more or apply for SSDI benefits could obtain much-needed guidance by speaking with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney.
