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DISABILITY CLAIMS INVOLVING MENTAL IMPAIRMENTS

Here are questions we often receive about Social Security disability for mental disorders:

May I receive Social Security benefits for a mental condition?  Yes.  If the condition is severe enough to prevent full-time, consistent work, you may be approved for benefits.  You will need the same basic type of proof that would be required for a physical illness.

Do I have to be in a hospital or institution to get disability benefits?   No. The requirement is that you are unable to perform consistent, full-time work because of your impairment.  You need not be hospitalized.

Does getting disability benefits for a mental condition imply that I am "crazy" or "incompetent"? No, not at all.  The old stigmas about mental disease have pretty much been eliminated by medical science.  We now see these conditions as an illness.  However, they can be just as disabling as a physical illness.

Will I be degraded, put down, or made to feel ashamed during the disability process?  No. This absolutely has no place.  The Social Security Administration will treat you respectfully and professionally.  The same is true with your attorney or advocate.  

Will my problems be made public if I apply for Social Security or go to a hearing about my benefits?  No. Social Security is a private, confidential process.  Your privacy is protected by law.  If you have to appear at a hearing, it is closed to everyone except the people who must be there to process the case.  These persons cannot divulge information about you without your written permission.
If you have further questions about mental impairments and Social Security disability, please contact us at the Forsythe Firm in Huntsville. We handle these cases confidentially and with concern for your well being. 

Contact the Forsythe Firm

(256) 799-0927. 

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