There is little question that mental health issues can be debilitating. Some people have such serious mental health concerns that they require hospitalization for them. Other people need ongoing therapy and may be unable to live independently or have a job because of their conditions.
If someone has enough of a work history to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, then they could receive benefits for a mental health issue that prevents them from working. Although there must be evidence to support the claim, it is possible for someone who is struggling with a mental health issue to receive SSDI benefits.
There are many qualifying mental health conditions
The Social Security Administration (SSA) receives thousands of benefits applications each year for all kinds of medical conditions. They hold every application to the same standard. The applicant must have a condition so debilitating that they cannot reasonably earn a living.
Mental health conditions can be severe enough to meet those criteria. There are 11 categories of mental disorders recognized by the SSA. These include:
- Depressive, bipolar and related disorders
- Intellectual disorders
- Anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Trauma and stress-related disorders
- Personality and impulse-control disorders
- Neurocognitive disorders
- Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders
Documentation from your primary care physician, a mental health professional or someone at an inpatient mental health facility can help you substantiate your claims that your condition keeps you from working. Understanding the standard that you must meet to claim SSDI benefits for mental health issues can improve your chances of qualifying when you apply for them.