According to the United States Social Security Administration (SSA), individuals diagnosed with certain mental disorders are eligible to receive social security disability benefits. For those who suffer with mental health issues, this income can provide a degree of relief in an otherwise difficult situation by aiding the recipient financially while their focus is on treatment. The SSA uses Section 12.00 of their guidelines on mental disorders to evaluate social security disability claims based on mental illness.
Mental Illness Guidelines
According to the SSA’s guidelines, a successful claim filed due to a mental disorder requires specific records/documentation of a “determinable impairment.” In addition to the actual medical records related to the issue, the guidelines also call for an analysis of how the medical issue actually impairs the claimant’s life, particularly in relation to their work ability. The length of time the condition is expected to limit the claimant is also a factor in approving or denying a claim, as the guidelines require that limitations be expected to last for at least twelve months.