Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Psychotic Disorders
Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that affects less than one percent of the U.S. population. When schizophrenia is active, symptoms can include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, trouble with thinking and lack of motivation. However, with treatment, most symptoms of schizophrenia will greatly improve and the likelihood of a recurrence can be diminished. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 12.03 of the Blue Book.
Do Psychotic Disorders Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with schizophrenia, paranoia, and other psychotic disorders do qualify, but they must be able to demonstrate that they suffer from:
- Delusions or hallucinations; or
- Disorganized or catatonic behavior; or
- A pattern of incoherent or illogical thinking (as evidenced by inappropriate mood or flat speech, etc.); or
- Emotional isolation and withdrawal from social interaction.
You must also be able to prove, with medical documentation, that your symptoms severely limit your ability to engage in normal daily activities, and to achieve and maintain gainful employment. If your symptoms are not severe enough for you to require full time care, but are still severe enough to keep you from working, the SSA lists a second set of requirements that make you eligible to get disability benefits. These are:
- Your medical records must show that you have a psychotic disorder that has lasted at least two years and has had a negative impact on your ability to work.
- You must be able to show that you cannot function in the world without a great deal of outside support; i.e., you must stay in a home environment and be unable to seek out or keep a job, or you must require assisted living arrangements, etc.
Although medical records are often specific as to symptoms and resulting limitations, they often do not describe exactly how a condition prevents you from working, and therefore may not be sufficient for proving total disability according to the SSA. Because Schizophrenia is a complicated disorder and because it is difficult for medical records alone to prove your inability to maintain gainful employment, it is often highly advisable that claimants hire a Social Security disability attorney or disability advocate to help you formulate and present your case.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with a psychotic disorder and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
