If you suffer from schizophrenia, you know how debilitating it can be. It may impact your daily life and ability to work. Schizophrenia significantly affects your ability to perceive reality. You may be wondering if you can get Social Security benefits for your condition.
According to the Social Security Administration, schizophrenia is one of the qualifying mental impairments for benefits. However, your condition must be severe enough in order for you to be eligible. Here is a guide to applying for SSDI coverage for schizophrenia.
Meeting the disability listing
The SSA has specific requirements for automatically qualifying people for benefits. You must provide the SSA with medical proof that you have at least one of the following symptoms:
- Disorganized speech
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Catatonia (abnormal behavior)
- Difficulty in social situations
- Limitation in remembering or understanding information
- Impairment in concentrating
- Trouble adapting to new situations
In addition, the SSA will look at whether your condition is severe and continuous. Generally, you should prepare evidence that you have had the disorder for at least two years, as well as evidence of medical treatment and a diminished capacity to adjust to changes or demands.
Evaluation of your residual functional capacity
Even if you do not meet the criteria above, you may still be able to obtain benefits. The SSA can evaluate your capacity to perform work tasks. If you cannot complete tasks that make you able to work, you can receive benefits.
Medication information
The SSA will request the details of any medications you take. If you do not adhere to the instructions from your doctor, the SSA may deny your claim. Additionally, if your prescriptions effectively treat the condition to the point you can work, you may receive a denial.
Remember that even if you get a denial for benefits, you can appeal the decision and keep fighting for the benefits. If you cannot perform a job, you deserve help from the SSA.