Saturday, November 30, 2013

MENTAL IMPAIRMENTS ARE IMPORTANT

Don't minimize the effect of mental impairments on disability.  Depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, personality disorder, PTSD, or other mental disorders can cause disability.

"Disability" is defined as the inability to perform substantial gainful activity, which in 2013 means earning at least $1,040 per month.  

The inability to concentrate, follow spoken or written instructions, respond appropriately to co-workers or supervisors, or to make simple work related decisions could indicate disability.  

Mental impairments must be diagnosed by your doctor and examination by a psychologist or psychiatrist is even better. Your doctor should also evaluate the severity of your symptoms.  If your physician or psychologist can provide you with a "medical source statement" showing how your symptoms will affect your function at work, it is extremely helpful.

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