In many cases, mental illnesses can be so severe to make it impossible for someone to function effectively at his or her job. Psychological disorders can interfere with a person’s ability to concentrate, interact normally with others, or complete routine tasks. Although effective treatments are now available for many types of psychological illness, most therapies only relieve symptoms partially.
If you have been diagnosed with a mental illness that interferes with your ability to function in the workplace, you may be eligible to receive benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. The Harrisburg Social Security lawyers at Schmidt Kramer have extensive experience helping clients across Pennsylvania establish SSDI claims. Contact us today to obtain a FREE subscription to our newsletter, which includes information on disability issues and legal developments that affect you.
The Three Barriers to Getting SSDI for Mental Disorders
Functional psychological disorders can develop over time or can manifest suddenly, bringing change in demeanor, personality, or thinking. In some people, mental health changes can be triggered by physical injuries—especially brain injuries—or by traumatic events, but the majority of psychological disorders have no clearly identifiable cause.
Among the conditions which may be severe enough to constitute a disability under SSDI rules are:
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Dementia
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Personality disorders
- Phobias
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Psychosis
- Schizophrenia
Security SSDI benefits in Pennsylvania isn’t easy. There are three formidable obstacles that stand in your way, beyond the challenges that all disability applicants face:
- Mental illness is invisible. Nobody can tell by looking that you have a psychological illness, so you will face skepticism at every point in the SSDI application process. You will confront greater challenges in persuading your case examiner that your illness is severe enough to be disabling.
- You face considerable stigma. Because of public prejudices, it can be hard to admit that you have a mental illness and harder still to ask for government benefits. Even though you have earned your SSDI benefits through contributions to the federal government fund over the years, social pressure can make it hard to apply.
- Your illness may overwhelm your ability to follow through the application process. Just as your mental disability makes it impossible to work, you may not have the concentration and resolve needed to fill out paperwork and gather documentation to prove your SSDI claim.
Overcoming the Barriers
If you need help filing for SSDI benefits or appealing a decision against you, Schmidt Kramer is here to help. Call us today at 717-888-8888 or (717) 888-8888 toll-free, or use the online contact form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced SSDI attorney in Pennsylvania.