If you have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, you are far from alone. Although many people with mental illness struggle with feelings of isolation and disconnection, the increased awareness of mental health challenges and conditions has prompted a rise in the number of individuals who are seeking a diagnosis and exploring their treatment options. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), more than one in five U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year (with more than one in 20 U.S. adults experiencing serious mental illness each year). Struggling with a mental illness like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or obsessive-compulsive disorder can make it extremely difficult for someone to hold a steady job or provide for themselves or their family. The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes that certain mental disorders entitle an applicant to receive Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits to assist them with the costs of living when their disability prevents them from working.
If a mental health issue is preventing you from working, it’s worth exploring whether you qualify for mental health disability benefits in Michigan. You can enlist the guidance of a highly experienced and caring Michigan SSDI attorney to help you understand the eligibility requirements and move through the application process if you meet these criteria. Let’s take a look at some of the mental health SSDI eligibility requirements and what you can expect during the SSDI application process.
Mental Health Conditions That May Qualify For SSDI in Michigan
In order to qualify for SSDI benefits, you will need to provide documentation of an impairment or disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. You will also need to show that you have earned a certain number of work credits (i.e., you have enough of a work history) to qualify for SSDI benefits. Essentially, you will need to demonstrate that the mental health condition or diagnosis is serious enough to interfere with your ability to work. Below are just a few of the mental health conditions that may entitle you to apply for SSDI benefits, according to the SSA’s “Blue Book” (their official resource that lists the eligibility requirements for SSDI benefits):
- Anxiety Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (in some cases)
As long as you can provide clear documentation and support to show how the mental health condition causes significant limitations in at least two areas of your mental functioning (or extreme limitations in at least one area), or you can provide evidence of at least a two-year history with the condition and an ongoing commitment to treatment, with only limited adjustment to daily stressors may qualify for SSDI for mental illness, you may want to consider moving forward with the application process.
How the SSA Evaluates Mental Health Claims
When the SSA reviews a Michigan SSDI mental health claim, they will use specific criteria to determine whether to approve the application. First, the applicant must present clear documentation of a qualifying mental illness, including detailed medical records (showing hospitalizations, therapy notes, formal diagnoses, and evaluations from qualified mental health professionals), medication details (including dosage, effectiveness, and side effects), and consistent treatment (i.e., the applicant is receiving ongoing care from licensed therapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists). After an application is filed, accurately completing a Function Report, which asks the applicant to list the specific ways that the mental health condition affects their daily life and ability to work, is very important. The SSA also reviews statements from mental health professionals to assess the severity of the mental health condition or mental illness.
Challenges Unique to Mental Health SSDI Claims
Unlike physical disabilities or limitations, mental health conditions often have invisible symptoms or rely on more subjective evidence (like the descriptions of the applicant and observations made by mental health professionals). Moreover, the field of mental health can lack consistency in how to treat various mental health conditions, and the criteria for accurately diagnosing a specific condition can be evasive. In some cases, mental health evaluators may exhibit bias or approach an applicant with skepticism, which can lead to inaccurate results. If you are thinking about applying for SSDI with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, or obsessive compulsive disorder, you can partner with an experienced and caring Michigan SSDI lawyer to help you move through the process with greater understanding and ease.
Tips For Strengthening a Mental Health SSDI Application in Michigan
As you approach the SSDI application process, it’s helpful to identify strategies for maximizing your chances of a successful outcome. You can start by making sure you are undergoing regular mental health treatment and therapy, and that these visits and treatments are well-documented. Your attorney can also help you compile letters or evaluations from the psychiatrists, psychologists, and other professionals who are treating you. The more details you can provide in your application and your medical records, the better your chances are of demonstrating your eligibility for SSDI benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Disability Benefits For Mental Illness in Michigan
Can I Get SSDI for Bipolar or Schizophrenia in Michigan?
Yes, as long as you can show that the condition is severe, long-term, and prevents you from working.
How Does the SSA Evaluate Mental Illness?
The SSA looks at your diagnosis, medical records, functional limitations, and treatment history.
What Are Common Reasons For Denying Mental Health SSDI Claims?
Insufficient evidence, gaps in treatment, or applications that do not show how the mental health condition prevents the applicant from working. Additionally, if substance use is a problem, that can make the disability status very unclear.
Should I Hire a Lawyer For My Mental Health SSDI Claim?
Yes—disability lawyers improve success rates, especially for mental illness claims. If you’re asking, “Is there a good SSDI lawyer near me?” the answer is yes! Reach out to Warren & Schairbaum, PLLC, today to get started.
Contact a Trusted Michigan SSDI Attorney Today
Understanding the eligibility requirements for SSDI in Michigan can be challenging and confusing. That’s why the highly qualified and caring legal team at Warren & Schairbaum, PLLC, is committed to helping you and your loved ones explore your options for securing the assistance you need. To learn more about the SSDI application process in Michigan, please call our Ann Arbor office today at (734) 769-9300 to get started with a trusted and empathetic SSDI and SSI attorney.
