Common mental health conditions that qualify for disability

There are many different kinds of mental health conditions that will qualify an Alabama resident to receive Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has an official listing of all the mental health conditions that qualify as “inherently disabling.” Also, if a condition is not found on the list, the SSA will review the symptoms to determine if the condition qualifies the applicant for disability benefits.

Some of the most common mental health conditions that qualify applicants for disability benefits include:

— Schizophrenia: This disorder is reflected in the way an individual behaves, feels and thinks. Individuals with schizophrenia may appear as though they’re experiencing a different kind of reality. These symptoms can leave an individual disabled.

— Autism: This disorder affects an individual’s social interaction and social communication skills.

— Mental retardation: This disorder affects an individual’s brain and thinking capacities, and it can result in serious disabilities.

— Depression: This is a mood-altering disorder. It can result in changes to the way someone thinks, feels and handles his or her activities throughout the day. Eating, sleeping and working habits could be affected.

— Anxiety: Symptoms of anxiety might include feeling fatigued, irritable, tense and worrisome and being unable to sleep and restless.

— Bipolar Disorder: This is a brain condition that causes individuals to experience extreme energy and mood shifts, going from highs to lows, as well as changes in one’s activity levels.

If you suspect that you or your loved one is suffering from a mental condition that is resulting in an inability to hold down a job, it may be possible to receive Social Security disability benefits for a mental disability. Contacting a disability benefits lawyer is a great way to begin the process of qualifying for this vital form of government assistance.

Source: FindLaw, “Mental Health Disability Claims,” accessed Feb. 24, 2017