Mental disorders that prevent you from working may qualify you for Social Security Disability benefits. SSD benefits are a form of financial assistance that can help you cover your living expenses and medical bills. However, applying for SSD benefits can be a complex and challenging process, especially if for Southern California applicants with mental disorders.
What mental disorders qualify?
The Social Security Administration has a list of mental disorders that are considered disabling under its rules. The list is divided into categories, each with specific criteria and examples of disorders. Each mental and psychological disability prevents sufferers from working for at least 12 months or may result in death.
Please note that the SSA’s Blue book assesses how these conditions affect your ability to function in work settings. These include your ability to understand, remember, apply information, interact with others, concentrate on work, perform work task and manage emotions and behaviors in the workplace.
How to apply for SSD benefits with a mental disorder?
To qualify for SSD benefits based on a mental disorder, you must meet the criteria for one of these categories in the SSA’s official listing of impairments (also known as the Blue Book). The criteria usually include specific symptoms, severity levels, duration requirements and functional limitations.
To apply for SSD benefits with a mental disorder, you need to fill out an application form online or at your local Southern California SSA office. You will need to provide information about your personal details, work history, medical history, etc.
Some of the categories
There are multiple categories. One such category is neurocognitive disorders. These are disorders that affect the brain’s ability to think, remember or process information.
Another category is schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders. These are disorders that cause distorted perceptions of reality, hallucinations, delusions or disorganized thinking.
Yet another category is depressive, bipolar and related disorders. These are disorders that affect the mood, energy and motivation of a person. However, this list is not exhaustive.