Depression and Social Security Disability

Depression is a disorder marked by excessive feelings of sadness or grief that exceed what are considered to be "normal" levels of sadness. Depression has been split into two categories based on its cause – endogenous and neurotic. Endogenous refers to depression occurring from within, what seems to be almost out of nowhere. Neurotic, on the other hand, refers to depression occurring from an obvious environmental factor such as the death of a spouse or child, or even the loss of a job.

Depression is not only the presence of sad thoughts and negative moods but is also the presence of a change in behavior. For example, the loss of appetite, loss of interest in sexual activity, trouble sleeping, crying spells, and aches and pains may be signs of depression.

There are also many different types of depression. Many people feel sad or depressed for a few days in their life, but major depression, known as clinical depression, is disabling. Clinical depression is diagnosed when depressive feelings or symptoms occur for more than one week. It is possible to suffer from clinical depression once in a lifetime, but more often than not, clinical depression is a recurring disorder. For more information about depression, please visit WebMD’s Depression Health Center.

Clinical depression can interfere with one’s ability to engage in typical day-to-day activities. This is why clinical depression is covered under Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). People are often surprised to hear that psychological disorders are covered under Social Security Disability Insurance, assuming only physical disabilities are covered. However, SSDI is intended to help those who can no longer work due to a disabling condition, and that includes many different psychological disorders, including depression.

In order to receive SSDI benefits due to depression, the depression must be severe enough to limit one’s ability to perform basic daily activities such as dealing with changes in work environment, and interacting with coworkers and management personnel. Whether or not you are entitled to receive SSDI benefits depends on many other factors, and the laws governing these benefits can be difficult to understand. This is why it is important to contact an attorney if you feel you may be unable to work due to your depression.

If you or a loved one would like to learn more about receiving Social Security Disability Insurance benefits due to your depression, please contact the experienced SSDI attorneys at The Cochran Firm, operating several offices in the United States today.

The Cochran Firm handles claims for clients throughout the United States of America. Please contact The Cochran Firm today to schedule a free consultation or fill out the form on this page for a FREE Social Security disability case review.