A mental disorder can severely impair your ability to work. However, being diagnosed with a mental disorder does not automatically qualify you to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Like all claims for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA), the burden of proving the disability is on the person making the claim. In southern California, if you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a mental disorder, an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability attorney can help you determine if you qualify for benefits, and if so, help you obtain them.
Having a mental disorder does not automatically qualify you to receive benefits because the SSA is primarily interested in how your condition – whether it’s depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, PTSD, or a similar condition – affects your overall ability to function and your specific ability to function in the workplace. The SSA will consider your:
- understanding, memory, and ability to concentrate
- ability to relate and cooperate with co-workers, supervisors, and the public
- ability to adapt to a workplace environment
Evidence and assessments of a mental disorder and the functional limitations it imposes must be offered by an accepted authority such as a licensed psychiatrist or a psychologist. Such evidence could include assessments, the applicant’s prescription history, and notes from therapy sessions. The SSA will also consider statements regarding severe functional limitations from counselors, social workers, colleagues, employers, and other appropriate parties.
It’s not easy to win disability benefits when you’re physically disabled; it’s usually even more difficult if you suffer from a mental disorder because mental disorders are harder to diagnose properly and harder for others to understand. If you or someone you love needs to receive Social Security disability benefits in southern California, don’t hesitate to let an experienced Los Angeles Social Security disability attorney provide the advice and help that you’re going to need. Make the call today.