Mental illness is often an area of disease that is not widely recognized by everyday individuals. Those who are not suffering from mental illness have issues conceptualizing what it is like to experience such a condition. They may even believe that mental illness is easy to overcome. These misconceptions, however, are usually false. Mental illness is widely recognized by the scientific community and help does exist for those suffering from these conditions.
When an individual has difficulty living their day-to-day life because of a mental condition, they may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. In order to be eligible for the benefits, the mental condition must be medically documented and must affect the individual’s ability to work. The illness must also have lasted, or be expected to last, for a period of at least 12 months.
Many categories of these mental conditions exist. Some categories include anxiety-related disorders, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, substantive addiction disorders and development disorders. These recognized categories all qualify for financial assistance under Social Security benefits. A full list of recognized disorders can be found on the official Social Security website.
The United States recognizes the impact and strain that a mental condition can impose upon an individual. These individuals are not alone and can find comfort in knowing that financial assistance exists to help them in their time of need. Individuals applying for Social Security benefits for mental conditions who need help with the legal process may find it useful to get more information before they begin the application process.
Source: Social Security Administration, 12.00 Mental Disorders – Adult, Accessed Nov. 24, 2014