We Can Help You Navigate the SSD/SSI System
Mood or affective disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, can be qualifying mental conditions under the Social Security Administration's (SSA) listing of impairments. The debilitating effects of mental illnesses are no less valid than those of physical illnesses. And like physical conditions, mental conditions must be proven with appropriate medical documentation when applying for Social Security Disability/Supplemental Security Income (SSD/SSI) benefits.
The Robert A. Koenigsberg Law Offices represents people suffering from depression and bipolar disorder as well as other mental disorders. Our attorneys can assist you with providing the types of medical evidence you need to obtain SSD/SSI benefits. For knowledgeable, compassionate representation from a New York City depression disability lawyer, please call us at 212-964-9292 today.
Depression and Bipolar Disorder
People who suffer from depression or bipolar disorder may suffer from an additional mood or affective disorder. The compound effects of multiple disorders can be seriously dangerous and debilitating. For example, it is very common for people with clinical depression to also experience problems with anxiety disorder.
Clinical depression can manifest itself in several ways. The most familiar is major depression, which can be triggered by a traumatic event, such as a death, and can last from a few weeks to many months. Chronic depression, called dysthymia, is not as well known, but can also be very dangerous. Symptoms of depression include:
- Feeling hopeless or worthless
- Sadness
- Suicidal thoughts
- Fatigue
- Loss of interest in activities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Weight changes
- Insomnia or sleeping too much
The SSA looks for evidence of a number of the symptoms above. In addition, you must have a documented history of a minimum of two years of depression, as well as statements and evidence of reduced capacity to perform a substantial gainful activity.
Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic depression) causes an individual to cycle between high states (mania) and depressive states. Mania can cause feelings of euphoria, anger and invincibility. Hyper sexual behavior, delusions and impaired judgment are also common. The depressive state causes the same type of symptoms as clinical depression.
Sometimes people with bipolar disorder experience mixed mood episodes of mania and depression. This is an extremely dangerous state that can result in suicide attempts.
We can discuss how to apply for benefits if you have bipolar disorder or clinical depression. For a free consultation with a Bronx bipolar disorder claim lawyer, please call 212-964-9292 or contact us online.
