You might be aware that Social Security provides disability benefits for physical disabilities, but you might not know if it will do the same for people experiencing mental problems. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration recognizes that mental disorders can impede your ability to earn a living and will offer benefits to people suffering from mental disorders.
A look at the Social Security website shows that SSDI benefits cover a variety of different mental disorders. Since not every mental disorder will qualify for benefits, it may help to learn which disabilities Social Security will evaluate for possible coverage.
Behavioral disorders
Certain disorders cause people to experience problems with their behavior or their emotional states. You might suffer from a bipolar or depressive condition, or you may experience a personality or impulse control disorder. Some individuals suffer from obsessive compulsions and anxiety. Social Security will evaluate illnesses and disorders that fall into these categories to see if they qualify for benefits.
Cognitive disorders
Your disorder might fall under a different category. You might have problems with certain cognitive abilities, like concentration, paying attention, retaining facts in your memory, interacting with other people, managing yourself or adapting to situations. Neurocognitive disorders can produce any of these problems and impede your ability to perform well at your job.
Disorders caused by trauma
Like many people, you probably have lived a normal life when suddenly a traumatic event occurred, like a crime perpetrated against you or a serious auto accident that left you seriously injured. Traumatic events can produce persistent mental disorders that interfere with your life. You might flashback to the traumatic event, experience problems with mood, behavior or sleep, or close yourself off to anything that reminds you of the trauma.
Other disorders
In addition to the previously discussed categories, Social Security will evaluate other disorders that may impede your ability to work. An eating disorder, for example, may cause problems with your health and work performance. Sometimes a traumatic event results in an eating disorder. Social Security will also consider benefits for people who suffer from an autistic disorder or from a somatic-related disorder.
