According to a United States census in 2004, mental disorders plague 26.2% of Americans beginning at the age of 18 years old. Several of the categories about mental illness include (not limited to) organic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, paranoia, suicide, schizophrenia, autism, and Alzheimer's.

If you, your child, or your spouse has a mental condition, it is normal to wonder whether or not your family qualifies for Social Security benefits and what evidence is needed to verify it.

Understanding the Disability Evaluation

According to the Social Security Administration, Section 12.00 deems mental disorders as one of the criteria for the application of obtaining Social Security benefits. The follow stipulations must be met in order to qualify:

• The mental disorder must have been experienced for a minimum, and continuously for 12 months.
• Have had treatment for a minimum of 2 years as an outpatient
• Medical supporting documents providing evidence you cannot function in any work

What is an Organic Mental Disorder?

Symptoms of organic disorders include confusion, irritability, memory loss, and loss of brain function. Each disorder is a bit different, but an individual with the disorder could qualify depending on how the condition impacts the individual's ability to work and function.

One of those disabilities is Alzheimer's because it considered a compassionate allowance, and benefits could begin as quickly as three weeks. Medicare will also begin right away instead of the typical two-year waiting period.

Additional Documentation

It might be beneficial for you to request a mental residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment form. A medical assistant will read the medical records and place an opinion stating whether the patient meets the criteria for disability benefits.

The limitations could include the applicant's ability to carry out instructions such as understanding and remembering information given for a specific task. It will also involve how well you can respond to supervision from coworkers as well as the supervisors. You could qualify if you cannot do any of these tasks.

Depression with Drugs or Alcohol Causes

If your depression symptoms are the result of drug or alcohol abuse, your chances are decreased. It is up to you to convince the psychologist the depression is not caused by either of those issues. Sobriety is a good way to prove this by having clean drug/alcohol screens when you apply for the benefits from Social Security. If possible, the doctor could indicate alcohol or drugs aren't the issue to aid in the process.

If you believe you qualify for Social Security benefits, it is essential to have as much information as you can compile. Documentation of all related mental health episodes should be close at hand. Hiring an attorney that handles disability cases on a daily basis would be a good idea. Their professional teams are up-to-date on regulations and can provide you with a good defense plan.

For more information, contact Duncan Disability Law SC or a similar firm.