Disability Insurance for Mental Health – Affective Disorders

Ortega Disability Group

Disability Insurance for Mental Health - Affective Disorders

Affective Mood Disorders and SSDI

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed to help individuals who are unable to work and take part in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) in order to financially support themselves. Many claimants who file for SSDI are affected by physical impairments that limit their abilities, while others are suffering from mental disorders with severe symptoms.

Mental Disorders that qualify for SSDI range from schizophrenia and anxiety disorders, to affective mood disorders and more. If an individual is suffering from an affective mood disorder that severely limits their abilities to work, complete daily tasks, function socially, etc., they may qualify for disability benefits.

Qualifying for SSDI with An Affective Disorder

To qualify for disability benefits with a mental disorder, the claimant must submit their disability claim to the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA is responsible for approving and denying claims, and will reference what is known as the Blue Book to determine whether or not someone qualifies for SSDI with a mental illness.

In the Blue Book, qualifying mental disorders are listed under section 12.00, and affective disorders are categorized in subsection 12.04 which is reserved for depressive, bipolar, and related disorders. To qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits with an affective disorder, there must be substantial supporting evidence, including both medical and non-medical criteria, to support an individual’s claim.

The claimant must provide a diagnosis from a medical professional, as well as proof that the symptoms and side effects of their disorder, and/or medication treating the disorder, prevent them from working. Medical evidence of past and current treatment(s) will also help support the claim.

Supplying all necessary evidence to the SSA and filing the appropriate documentation is a detailed process, and often initial claims are denied. The best way to improve your chances of receiving benefits is to work with a qualified SSDI attorney.

Affective Disorders that Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits

It is important for people to be able to receive support when and if they are struggling with their mental health. SSDI is one way for individuals who are suffering with severe mental health conditions to receive essential benefits and assistance.

The SSA is required to assess disability claims by determining whether or not the individual’s affective disorder meets the criteria in the Blue Book. Many disorders fall under the affective disorders category. If you are asking, does depression qualify for disability benefits, or does bipolar disorder qualify for disability benefits, the answer is yes. As long as symptoms and side effects of these conditions significantly impact the individual’s daily life and prevent them from earning a living wage.

For example, often those who qualify for SSDI with an affective mood disorder struggle to perform daily tasks, maintain social functioning, concentrate, etc. Additionally, symptoms must have been present for at least one year, or be expected to last for at least one year.

Some other examples of mood disorders that qualify for SSDI include:

  • Cyclothymic Disorder
  • Phobias
  • Dysthymic Disorder
  • Panic Disorders
  • Mood Disorder due to a General Medical Condition
  • Substance-Induced Mood Disorder
  • Mood Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

Contact Ortega Disability Group Today

If you are struggling with a serious affective mood disorder, reach out to our team at Ortega Disability Group today. Our Social Security Disability lawyers know how to make sure you receive the best chances at obtaining SSDI benefits. Our law firm has experience filing claims with the SSA and will help you through the filing process, as well as gather all necessary documentation. Contact us today to request a free consultation!

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