The list of disabilities that can qualify a person for Social Security Disability benefits is quite extensive, so it’s only natural to wonder which ailments are the most common. Many different conditions bother people on a daily basis, but it is not until these conditions become so severe that the person is not able to work, that they can be considered for disability. You must remember this as you scan this list from WebMD of some of the most common conditions that cause disability—it is the severe, disabling forms of these conditions that qualify someone for disability benefits.
- Cancer. It’s not just the cancer itself that can be disabling—it is the accompanying treatment like radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery that can have long-term effects on a person’s ability to work.
- Nervous system disorders. These can be any conditions that affect the brain or nerves, like Parkinson’s disease, Multiple sclerosis, or Epilepsy. Multiple sclerosis is the leading disability in young adults and usually appears between ages 20 and 40.
- Arthritis and other problems with the musculoskeletal system. Arthritis is thought to make up almost one-third of all disability cases, and one in three people say arthritis affects their ability to do their jobs in some way.
- Mental health problems. Mental health problems are the most common reason that people file for Social Security Disability. Disorders like bipolar, anxiety, and depression can be incredibly crippling and make a person’s day-to-day duties next to impossible.
Whether or not you’re suffering from a common disability, you should still be able to receive Social Security Disability benefits if you are unable to work. If you’re having trouble filing your initial application, or you want to appeal a denial, it’s time to speak with a Social Security attorney. Harrisburg and Camp Hill area residents can call Schmidt Kramer for a free consultation at 1-888-476-0807.