Mental Illness
Can I Apply for Social Security Disability with a Mental Illness?
Yes, for purposes of applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits, mental illnesses are no different from physical injuries. This means that you are entitled to the same benefits, but it also means that you are subject to the same requirements, restrictions, and hurdles along the way. With our primary offices in Oakland and Sacramento, David Allen & Associates helps people suffering from mental illness throughout the Western United States enforce their entitlements to SSD benefits.
We Help People with Mental Illnesses throughout California, Nevada and the West Obtain Disability Benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes many types of mental illness as capable of causing a total disability warranting payout of SSD benefits. These include, but are not limited to:
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Manic depression
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Developmental disorders
- Autism
- Anxiety and depression
- Other disabling brain disorders
As with physical injuries and illnesses, in order to receive SSD benefits for your mental illness, it must prevent you from working at your job for at least a year. You must also have sufficient work credits, and your illness must prevent you from finding alternate gainful employment. For a detailed outline of the SSA’s mental disability policies, read:
Disability Evaluation Under Social Security. For more information on qualifying for SSD benefits, read:
Understanding What it Means to Be Disabled for Purposes of SSD in Oakland and Sacramento.
Like all Social Security Disability claims, the success or failure of your mental illness disability application will depend in large part on the medical records that you submit to the SSA. Remember, you must affirmatively demonstrate that you are disabled in order to receive SSD benefits. Your medical records – along with any examinations that the SSA may require during the process – will be key to proving your disability. As a result, it is very important that you seek prompt diagnosis of your condition, and then consistently follow up with all scheduled treatment and recommended prescriptions. Not only will this help you get better or manage your symptoms, but it will also help maximize your chances of obtaining SSD benefits.
Meet with an Experienced Attorney Regarding Your SSD Claim
The attorneys at David Allen & Associates are here to help you obtain the SSD benefits you deserve. Call
(877) 876-4800 or
contact us online to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today. We have office locations throughout California and Nevada, and you are always welcome to discuss your disability case at any of our offices with one of our Sacramento or Oakland mental illness disability lawyers.