There are a lot of misconceptions about depression. People who don’t experience it often equate it with a general sense of sadness, for instance, and they may think that people who suffer from the disorder just need to cheer up. They do not understand how detrimental it can be and how it is often out of someone’s control.
My office has successfully represented numerouos clients who suffer from severe mental impairments, alone or in combination with other physical impairments.
It does not help that this is an “invisible” condition. From the outside, a person appears to be in great health. That doesn’t mean that what you see is accurate.
The types of medical conditions which may result in Social Security disability include the following:
- Major depressive disorder
- Anxiety disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
These are conditions that can be diagnosed by a doctor. Even if you appear fine to the casual observer, you know how you feel and your doctor can back that up. You may have a prescription for medications to help with the disorder, and the side effects of your medication may help you qualfy for disability under the Social Security Act. Other conditions that may be relevant to a disability claim include:
- Illegal drug use
- Relationship problems
- Stress
- Irritability
- Adjustment disorders
Since these types of conditions are commonly misunderstood, it is very important to take the time to talk with your doctor as to how your mental condition may affect your ability to work. You need to know exactly where you stand and what legal protections and options you have. If your medical condition affects your ability to work, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.