Substance abuse is typical of people who experience pain every day of their lives. Prescription and/or illegal drugs are used for this purpose, and so is alcohol. This self medication can lead to alcoholism. At one time, alcoholism and substance abuse could make a person eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits. However, the United States Congress has changed the law that allowed this to happen. Nowadays, a person who suffers from alcoholism or substance abuse will find that this impairment is a hindrance when it comes to being approved for benefits. The SSA will evaluate the other health claims made by the applicant before checking into what type of impact alcoholism and substance abuse has on the person. In order to receive Social Security benefits, a medical condition that lasts for at least one year or that will result in the applicant's death is necessary. This condition must prevent the applicant from doing the type of work he or she did in the past as well as any other type of work available in the United States. While alcoholism can contribute to an inability to work, it must not be the only limitation a person has. If someone who is an alcoholic stopped using alcohol and was then able to work, Social Security will pay no attention to the claim of alcoholism when deciding if that person is eligible for benefits.