Mental health conditions can create a variety of life challenges related to relationships, daily activities, and work. When mental health starts interfering with work, this can create significant income problems over time. You may not have to struggle to earn an income if you meet the eligibility requirements for disability benefits. Talk to a Pennsylvania disability attorney to learn more.

Are Mental Health Conditions Covered by Disability Benefits? 

You might be wondering if mental health conditions are covered by disability benefits under the Social Security Administration (SSA). The answer is there are mental health disability benefits available with a list of multiple mental disorders in the SSA Blue Book of disabilities. Even if your specific mental health condition is not listed in the Blue Book, you might still qualify for disability benefits if the eligibility criteria are met.

The mental health conditions listed in the SSA Blue Book for adults range from depression to developmental disorders like intellectual disorders. There are 11 categories of mental health conditions with more mental disorders in each category. Some of the main mental health conditions listed include:

• Depression
• Bipolar disorders
• Anxiety and compulsive disorders
• Personality disorders
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• Eating disorders
• Trauma disorders
• Psychosis related disorders

If your mental health condition cannot be found in the SSA Blue Book, you may still qualify for disability benefits. Learning about eligibility criteria for disability benefits in general can help with figuring this out. You can also contact a Pennsylvania disability lawyer who can help you navigate this process. 

Who is Eligible for Disability Benefits? 

Certain disability benefits eligibility criteria need to be met regardless of whether your mental health condition is listed or not. These criteria include meeting the definition of a disability, impact on work performance, work history, income level, and evidence. Meeting the definition of a disability means:

• Your mental health condition is expected to last one year or lead to a premature death
• Your mental health condition impairs work performance
• Your mental health condition interferes with earning a basic income

The SSA will thoroughly assess the impact of your mental health symptoms on work performance. Not only does this mean current work performance but also past jobs and potential future jobs. Your mental health symptoms must prevent you from earning a basic income for any kind of job.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is provided based on work history. You must have a certain number of work credits from jobs that paid into Social Security. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is the alternative that is based on making under a certain level of monthly income.

Evidence is required to prove your mental health condition. This ranges from medical records to therapist documents. You can also document your symptoms.

Call Edelstein & Nelson Today

Finding out your disability benefits application was denied can feel discouraging. Feel free to talk to a Pennsylvania denied benefits appeal lawyer if you were denied disability benefits for mental health struggles. All you have to do is contact Edelstein & Nelson today at (800) 300-0909 for a consultation about legal options. Our legal team is prepared to help you take steps to maximize your chances of receiving disability benefits.