Clinical Depression and Social Security Benefits

The Social Security program in America was designed to help all those unable to garner normal wages to still maintain an acceptable quality of life. While disability benefits extend to many different forms of affliction, mental illness is still an area that is in some doubt and concern when it comes to collecting benefits. Thankfully, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is kind to those suffering from clinical depression and includes it in all its various forms under its requirements.

You may actually be surprised to find out that depression is the second most common medical reason that is included on Social Security (SSI) claims. This is primarily because depression is much more debilitating than most people give it credit for. More than just a constant feeling of gloom and hopelessness, clinical depression also often afflicts people with fatigue, decreased energy levels, sleep disturbance, and anhedonia, or the loss of interest in activities that were previously fulfilling.

Under the list of disabling qualifications for SSI benefits, many forms of clinical depression are included, including major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and dysthymia. Bipolar disorder is also included because it includes a major cycle of depression. In all cases, a diagnosis must be obtained from a psychological medical professional in order to qualify for SSI benefits, but it is a common way to begin earning benefits if it is severe enough to inhibit one’s ability to work.

If you are someone who suffers from clinical depression and your SSI application has been rejected, then you may go through an appeal process to have your application overturned. To learn how we at the Franco Law Firm can help you with this and see that you begin collecting the benefits that you need and deserve, please call us at (813) 872-0929.