Living with a mental illness is anything but easy. What makes this even more challenging is when society does not view these individuals as disabled. The current administration and how they plan to deal with Social Security disability benefits has unfortunately resulted in various myths to circulate. In fact, one of the most harmful myths that some in Florida and nationwide might believe is that mental disorders are one of the more dubious disorders that qualify individuals for SSD benefits.
By gaining public support by deploying selective and deceptive facts, this could in turn further complicate the application process for those living with mental illnesses. Currently, roughly 25 percent of the 8 million SSDI recipients are deemed to have a mental condition as their qualifier for benefits. These include a wide variety of disorders such as post traumatic stress disorder, severe depression, intellectual impairments and anxiety.
Many question why these recipients do not work for a living. This goes along with viewing these disorders as not debilitating, when in fact many find it difficult to hold a job when they are suffering from a severe mental impairment. A mental illness can make it difficult to concentrate on a task, handle changes or even handle the routine interactions in the work environment. Thus, many struggle to maintain or even obtain employment.
And while myths continue to circulate about those living with this particular disability, this does not mean individuals living with a mental disorder cannot qualify for SSD benefits. Thus, whether you are seeking in apply for, appeal or seeking to continue your current benefits, it is important to understand your rights. This could help you navigate through the process timely with your rights and interests intact.
Source: Ncpssm.org, “Myths about Mental Illness and Social Security Disability Insurance Debunked,” June 2, 2017
