Many people just consider physical disabilities, injuries or illnesses when thinking about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). However, this also applies to people with mental health conditions.
Having basic information on the process of applying for benefits can help a lot in the long term.
Guidelines for conditions
The Social Security Administration sets guidelines regarding who may apply for SSDI and for what conditions.
First, what type of conditions qualify? Whether looking into benefits for reasons of mental or physical disability, one of the most important things is that it must make it hard for a person to support himself or herself.
Guidelines exist for both types of mental and physical conditions, and a person can find out more about their specific problem to see if SSDI will cover it. For example, within mental health disorders, 11 categories exist. Each has a relevant diagnosis, including somatic disorders, trauma disorders, and more.
What to know when applying
When applying for SSDI, it is important to include evidence of a diagnosis. Any relevant medical records should get sent in along with the application. In addition, applicants should send evidence of their ability or inability to continue their employment. In order to apply, an SSDI applicant needs a minimum of one year of documented history.
If approved for SSDI, the SSA will then administer the appropriately designated benefits to help a person support his or herself while also getting treatment for their health problem. Benefit amounts depend on how long a person paid into Social Security.
Though the process is often complex and difficult to navigate, the relief of potential benefits and support is well worth it.