The rise in the awareness and acceptance of mental health conditions may have led to your diagnosis. Depending on your condition, you may find working difficult at the moment.
You may need to take time away from the job to continue treatment to get your mental health back on track. However, the financial feasibility of a lengthy leave may not prove realistic. You may want to explore whether getting Social Security benefits while you treat is feasible.
What does Social Security do?
If you have paid money into Social Security through your paychecks, you may qualify to start receiving benefits should you have a medical condition. You may assume this means a medical condition or one that occurs due to trauma. This is not the case.
Do mental health disorders qualify?
Mental health is a large part of your overall physical health. Keeping yourself fit includes getting help and treatment for mental health conditions. In some cases, your disorder may make working impossible for a short time. According to the Social Security Blue Book, many common mental health conditions make you eligible for benefits. Examples include:
- Anxiety
- Bipolar
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Narcolepsy
- Autism
What does SSA need to process your claim?
When your mental health requires long-term treatment, your medical records become crucial for filing a claim with Social Security. Absent a thorough diagnosis and treatment plan, SSA may reject your application for benefits.
Making your health a priority is the first step to getting on the road to a long and prosperous life. If you are eligible to tap your Social Security benefits, go through the process along with a knowledgeable professional to ensure you get what you need.