Mental Health Disorders: Social Security Disability Benefits

Are you living with a mental health disorder? Our Pennsylvania law firm has the experience you need on your side if you're seeking Social Security disability benefits (SSD).

The frustration and anguish caused by debilitating mental illnesses can make it difficult to accomplish everyday tasks that most people take for granted. That's why we're here to help. Let our experienced SSD benefits law firm help you cut through the red tape and get all the disability benefits that you deserve.

Who is Eligible to Receive Social Security Disability Benefits for Mental Disabilities?

Certain criteria is applied to all applications reviewed by the Disability Determination Services (DDS) department of the Social Security Administration (SSA):

Your disability must be expected last at least one year, or it must be expected to result in death. You must also meet work history requirements. If not, you may be entitled to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead.

Beyond those criteria, each Social Security disability benefits case is different. Some conditions have officially recognized tests that may aid the DDS in determining your eligibility. But, as it is with most mental illnesses, your condition will most likely be verified through doctor's records and your medical history. Furthermore, the SSA will consider how greatly your mental health disorder affects your ability to function in daily life.

Types of Mental Health Disorders

Some of the most common mental illnesses we see at our law firm include:

However, these are only a few of the mental disorders that exist. Mental health disorders span from mild low spirits to delusions and hallucinations. With such a wide range of conditions, there are many classifications to describe mental illnesses, including:

Though this list includes many different types of disorders that may qualify you for Social Security disability benefits, not all mental health conditions will entitle you to disability benefits. To find out if your mental illness may entitle you to SSD or SSI benefits, you can contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) or take advantage of our law firm's free legal evaluation.

Suffering from a Mental Disorder and Seeking Disability Benefits?

Over three-quarters of the people who file for Social Security disability benefits are denied the first time around. But don't get discouraged – with the help of an experienced SSD benefits law firm, your odds are greatly improved.

It's important to act fast. If you've already been denied benefits, you only have 60 days to appeal. And if you're applying for the first time, it's never too early to get started. Contact our Pennsylvania law firm today through our free legal evaluation and we'll get back to you right away.