Qualifying for Disability When You Have Depression

Depression is a severe mental disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It can cause severe symptoms that interfere with a person’s capability to function in daily life. People with depression may be unable to work or attend school and even struggle to complete basic tasks. If a person’s depression is so severe that it prevents them from working, they may be eligible for disability benefits.

Here, your trusted Florida disability lawyer shares what you need to know about this:

What Is Depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder that affects how an individual thinks, feels, and behaves. It can cause a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. It is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders that can affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.

Depression is a serious condition that can significantly impact a person’s life. It can interfere with daily work, school, and social life. It can also cause a person to feel hopeless and have thoughts of suicide.

Prevalence of Depression in the U.S.

Depression is among the most common mental health issue in the United States, affecting millions of people each year.

The prevalence of depression in the U.S. is higher than in many countries, and it can have a significant economic impact. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that depression costs the U.S. economy over $210 billion annually in lost productivity and medical costs.

Can You Qualify for Disability in the U.S. with Depression?

For those who suffer from depression, it can be challenging to get out of bed in the morning, maintain relationships, and perform everyday tasks. Unfortunately, many people with depression also have difficulty finding or maintaining employment due to the condition’s debilitating effects.

Fortunately, help is available for individuals with depression who may qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). In the United States, individuals with depression can be eligible for the benefits of disability if they meet specific criteria.

To qualify for disability benefits with depression, an individual must meet the SSA’s definition of “total disability.” This means that the individual must be unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity due to depression. The individual must also have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that lasts about 12 months or result in death.

When determining whether an individual qualifies for disability benefits, the SSA looks at medical and non-medical evidence. The medical evidence includes medical records, laboratory tests, and physicians’ opinions. Non-medical evidence consists of a detailed description of the individual’s symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness.

In addition, the SSA looks at an individual’s ability to perform activities of daily living. This includes the individual’s ability to work, care for themselves, and interact with others. The SSA also considers an individual’s educational background, work experience, and age when determining eligibility for disability benefits.

If an individual meets the SSA’s criteria for disability benefits, they may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Insurance. SSI is a federal program providing cash benefits to disabled individuals who meet certain income and resource requirements. SSDI is an insurance program that provides cash benefits to individuals who have paid into the Social Security system.

Conclusion

Depression is a serious condition that can have a huge effect on an individual’s quality of life. Fortunately, individuals with depression may be eligible for disability benefits from the SSA if they meet certain criteria. If you or a loved one is suffering from depression and is considering applying for disability benefits, it is important to speak to a qualified Florida disability lawyer who can help determine if you are eligible.

Avard Law can provide you with the legal expertise of a disability attorney in Fort Myers. Schedule a meeting with Avard Law today!