The Social Security Disability program considers certain mental health issues just as serious and debilitating as it does certain physical impairments. But as you pursue disability benefits for a mental illness, there are some things to bear in mind that can help streamline application procedures and make you a more informed part of the process. Below, the specialists at Disability Claim Consultants in Omaha, Nebraska, share some important facts about filing for disability because of a mental health condition.

3 Facts About Receiving Disability for a Mental Health Issue

1. You Must Have a Verifiable Mental Illness

First and foremost, you must have a qualifying mental health issue for which you are receiving medical care. As part of the initial disability application, Social Security will verify with your doctors that you have a history of mental illness and are currently getting and complying with treatment. An eligible disorder is typically one that limits your ability to live, work, and support yourself; these can include depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and psychosis.

2. You Must Have Functional Issues Because of Your Illness

The disorder must negatively impact your ability to function successfully in your life. In general, the illness must be shown to present at least two of the following:

• Problems understanding, applying, or remembering new information
• Problems interacting with other people
• Problems concentrating or staying on task
• Problems adapting to life or managing the details of daily living

3. You Cannot Receive Disability for a Substance Abuse Issue Alone

Substance abuse, by itself, is usually not considered a disabling condition by the Social Security Administration. With that said, substance abuse that has led to or is exacerbated by a mental health condition can sometimes qualify. For example, if an individual has serious, documented, long-term depression that has caused them to self-medicate with alcohol, they can apply for disability for their depression and include their struggle with alcohol as a manifestation of the disease.

If you suffer from a mental illness that has put major restrictions on your ability to work, explore your options with Disability Claim Consultants. They are here to walk you through the process of applying for disability and will advocate for you at every stage of your claim. Call (402) 422-1000, visit their website, or contact them on Facebook to schedule an appointment.