Yes, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does approve applications for disabling mental health conditions. Unfortunately, it is notoriously hard for Social Security Disability (SSD) claims involving mental health to find approval initially.
Since the burden of proving a condition is the applicant’s responsibility, most Tucson, Arizona residents find the process challenging, at best.
What mental conditions are covered by SSD?
Mental illnesses are as varied as the people that suffer from them. It would be nearly impossible for the SSA to cover every psychological disorder that ever existed. As a solution, the SSA divides mental conditions into several categories. Some of the conditions that may qualify for benefits include:
- Eating disorders
- Psychotic disorders
- Intellectual disorders
- Neurocognitive disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Schizophrenia spectrum disorders
- Stress and trauma-related disorders
- Depression, bipolar and related disorders
- Impulse control and other personality disorders
- Neurodevelopmental and autism spectrum disorders
Remember, you must have documentation that supports the need for SSD benefits before your application is approved. Typically, this means gathering records from your mental health treatment providers. You may also need to collect any employment records that show how your condition has affected your ability to work and earn an income.
Many SSD applications result in denial the first time around, so try not to be disappointed if it happens to you. To improve your odds of success when you first apply, consider seeking guidance from a legal professional.
It also serves your best interests to learn as much as possible about SSD, including the rules and regulations that SSA staff members must follow when making decisions.