In past blog posts, we have looked at some specific categories of conditions considered disabling by the Social Security Administration. As part of our ongoing series on disabling conditions, we will be exploring mental disorders that may make a person eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits.
Mental disorders in particular can be difficult to evaluate. Unlike physical disabilities, mental conditions may not be visibly evident and may not be completely understood by the doctors diagnosing them. Treatment can vary widely and is heavily dependent on the individual experiencing the conditions. Mental conditions can be very complex, but a number of them are typically considered qualifying conditions for Social Security benefits.
Mental disorders that may be considered disabling by the SSA include:
- Organic mental disorders that result in significant cognitive disabilities or changes
- Psychotic disorders
- Mood disorders
- Obsessive compulsive disorder
- An IQ of 70 or lower
- Autism
- Posttraumatic stress disorder
This is just a small sample of the mental disorders that can be eligible for coverage from the SSA. There are many other conditions that can be disabling enough to warrant a claim for disability benefits, but it may not always be clear to a person how to go about pursuing this support.
People who are experiencing temporary or permanent mental conditions that make it difficult or impossible to work should seek medical help to get the attention and support they need sooner, rather than later. Not only can medical care be essential in identifying effective treatments, but evidence of medical diagnoses and care can prove to be crucial aspects when applying for disability benefits.
With all this in mind, readers should know that it can also be crucial to have legal support when pursuing disability benefits. Having the help of an attorney can provide disabled workers with a sense of relief and guidance, whether they are applying for benefits or appealing a denied claim.
