Getting Disability For Schizophrenia

To obtain disability benefits for mental illnesses from the Social Security Administration, one needs to meet a complex set of conditions. This is true in the case of schizophrenia as well. However, as with many other mental illnesses the sufferer might not be able to realize that they are afflicted with a problem. Family members, co-workers, and bosses might have to help fill up the necessary forms describing the symptoms of the illness. This is all the more so in the case of schizophrenia where the patient is unable to perceive the symptoms.

A general physician or a psychiatrist who has been treating the patient for a long time can also be asked to explain why this medical condition prevents the patient from working or carrying out day-to-day activities. To qualify for disability benefits when diagnosed with schizophrenia, the patient has to exhibit three of the following problems.

Daily Living

The activities that come under this head include cooking, cleaning, doing the laundry, brushing one’s teeth, bathing, grocery shopping, paying rent on time, and so on. If the patient needs help with these activities or needs to be reminded to complete these chores, then it can be held that there is sufficient impairment to prevent them from earning a living.

Social Functioning

A person suffering from schizophrenia does not perform well in social conditions. They are unable to carry on a conversation and fear strangers. They are rude or clam up in the middle of conversations. They are unable to get along with those in authority. As all these are skills needed to carry on working, any deficiency in social functioning because of a mental illness will help you to claim disability benefits.

Lack of Concentration

Those suffering from schizophrenia suffer from a lack or concentration and persistence. They also work at a slower pace. While many people abandon hobby projects mid-way, if you are unable to concentrate on your work and complete work-related tasks, this can qualify you for benefits.

Decompensation

This is a condition where the patient gets into sudden fits of rage. They either withdraw or blow up – both of which are unacceptable in an employment scenario. If you have suffered from such episodes, bring this to the notice of the Social Security Administration will help secure your benefits.

Talk to a Disability Attorney

People suffering from mental illnesses are ill-equipped to handle their own cases. So getting a lawyer to represent you is of utmost importance.