Mental illnesses that can be covered by Social Security disability include depression, anxiety and anxiety-related disorders, autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and intellectual disability. Cognitive problems such as those that stem from traumatic brain injuries, Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, age-related memory problems also fall under the umbrella of mental illness.
3 Things You Must Know About Social Security Disability Claims
Are you eligible?
Check EligibilityMental Illness and Social Security Disability
Applicants for Social Security disability often base their claims on mental illnesses and disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bi-polar disorder.
Psychological Evaluations for Social Security Disability
If you're applying for Social Security disability based on a mental, psychological, or emotional condition, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will often schedule you for an independent evalu
Getting Social Security Disability Benefits for Anxiety Disorders
Those diagnosed with a severe general anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, or agoraphobia may be able to get disability benefits.
Getting Social Security Disability for Agoraphobia Disorder
Agoraphobia, the fear of public places, can be a crippling anxiety disorder. If the agoraphobia is well-documented and makes full-time employment impossible, Social Security Disability benefits may be available.
Does OCD Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can be so disruptive to a person’s life that it becomes impossible to work.
Getting Social Security Disability Benefits for Depression or Bipolar Disorder
Depression is a commonly alleged mental condition for individuals trying to obtain Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits.
Getting Disability Benefits for Panic Disorder
Individuals who suffer from panic attacks that affect their ability to function normally at work or home are sometimes eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits.
How Can I Document My PTSD in Order to Get Social Security Benefits?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be the basis for a successful Social Security disability claim, but it must be properly medically documented.
Getting Disability Benefits for Schizophrenia
If you suffer from schizophrenia, you may be eligible for benefits if you are unable to work for 12 months and meet the disability requirements outlined by Social Security.
Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability
Written by a psychiatrist and former SSA medical consultant, Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability explains the disability requirements for dozens of mental, emotional, and cognitive problems.
Nolo's book covers Medicaid rules for seniors and persons with disabilities.
Can You Get Disability Benefits if Your Child Has ADHD or ADD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is sometimes diagnosed in children who exhibit impulsiveness, inattention, or hyperactivity to a degree that isn't appropriate for their age.
Disability Benefits for Low IQ
The SSA will grant disability benefits based on low IQ scores only if an applicant also has difficulty with work-related functioning.
Getting Social Security Disability Benefits for Dementia
Those who have dementia with declines in learning, memory, concentration, or language can often get disability benefits if they meet the requirements outlined by the SSA.
