Mental Disorder

How does the Social Security Administration Evaluate a Mental Disorder?
The Social Security Administration’s (SSA) evaluation of a disability on the basis of a mental disorder is based on the following:
- Documentation of a medically determinable impairment(s);
- Degree of limitation that the impairment(s) may have on the claimant’s ability to work; and
- The determination of whether these limitations have lasted or are expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months.
What are some categories of Mental Disorders?
The following categories of mental disorders are described more in depth on the SSA’s website:
- Organic mental disorders: described as psychological or behavioral abnormalities associated with a dysfunction of the brain
- Schizophrenic, paranoid and other psychotic disorders
- Affective disorders: characterized by a disturbance of mood, accompanied by a full or partial manic or depressive syndrome
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Mental retardation
- Anxiety-related disorders
- Somatoform disorders: defined as physical symptoms for which there are no demonstrable organic findings or known physiological mechanisms;
- Personality disorders
- Substance addiction disorders
- Autistic disorder
- Other pervasive developmental disorders
Can you provide me a list of Disabilities and Impairments that would qualify me for SSDI or SSI?
This is a partial list of disabilities and impairments that may qualify you for receiving SSDI or SSI benefits. This is not a complete list. Please contact Scott D. Lewis to determine whether your impairment may qualify.
- Musculoskeletal System Disorders
- Special Senses & Speech Disorders
- Respiratory System Disorders
- Cardiovascular System Disorders
- Digestive System Disorders
- Genitourinary System Disorders
- Hematological Disorders
- Skin Disorders
- Endocrine System Disorders
- Impairments that Affect Multiple Body Systems
- Neurological Disorders
- Mental Disorders
- Malignant Neoplastic Diseases
- Immune System Disorders
Social Security Disability Claims Representation:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI)
- Initial Claims
- Denied Claims
- Request for Reconsideration
- Request for a Hearing
- Disabled Child Benefits
For more specific information about Social Security claims law, visit the information pages on this website: