Mental disabilities can be a serious concern, preventing disabled individuals from earning an income to support themselves and their families. Different resources, such as Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income, may be available to help disabled individuals cover the basic expenses of daily life, however, disability benefits can be difficult to obtain. A number of applications for disability benefits are initially denied which is why it is important to understand how to properly approach applying for benefits and appealing a denial of benefits if necessary.
Disabled individuals can feel pulled in a variety of directions, trying to take care of themselves, their families and obtain much-needed benefits. The process of applying for benefits can be complicated and frustrating. Receipt of disability benefits is based on a qualifying mental or physical condition, as well as other factors. Qualifying mental conditions can include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post traumatic disorder, traumatic brain injuries, schizophrenia, disorders on the autism spectrum, developmental and intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome and learning disabilities.
When applying for disability benefits, medical evidence of the medical condition the disabled individual suffers from must be provided. It is important to establish a significant history of medical treatment for the claimed condition. Evidence may be gathered from doctors, specialists and others. It is important to provide thorough medical records to establish the disabled individual’s medical condition and, at times, the mental condition the disabled individual suffers from may be linked to a physical condition they are suffering from. Whatever the medical condition the disabled individual is suffering from, it is important to understand how to substantiate it.
The process of applying for disability benefits can be complex which is why it is helpful for disabled individuals to understand the different factors that are considered when they submit an application for disability benefits. Having proper guidance — like the help our attorneys can provide — throughout the process, and knowing what to expect, can help make the process more manageable and lead to a more positive outcome.
