Depression, often known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a mental health illness characterized by persistent sorrow and loss of interest in daily activities. It’s more than just feeling down for a day or two; depression can last for weeks or months and significantly affect your ability to work, study, or carry out regular activities.
As this condition affects many people worldwide, many are wondering whether it is considered a disability, including eligibility requirements, and what it means for those who are affected.
Is Depression Considered a Disability?
In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) include mental health problems such as depression in their definitions of disability if certain circumstances are met.
According to the ADA, depression is deemed a handicap if it seriously affects a person’s ability to conduct key living activities. This includes tasks like working, eating, sleeping, and socializing. For example, if depression makes it difficult for someone to focus at work or complete simple tasks, it may qualify as a disability.
The Social Security Administration also recognizes depression as a potential disability, but only if it severely limits a person’s ability to work or carry out daily functions.
To be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), an individual must demonstrate that their depression has lasted at least 12 months or is projected to stay that long, and it is seriously affecting their ability to do fundamental employment responsibilities.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) also benefits low-income people with disabilities. It provides cash to help people pay for food, clothing, and housing.
To qualify, you must establish that you have a low income and limited assets. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require that you have worked or pay Social Security taxes. Even if you have never worked, you may be eligible for benefits.
Different Types of Depression and Their Impact
There are several types of depression, and each can affect a person’s life differently when it comes to disability:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
The most common type of depression is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). It can have a significant influence on a person’s capacity to do daily chores, making major depressive disorder a handicap. If the symptoms are severe and persistent, MDD can impair one’s capacity to work or carry out everyday responsibilities, making clinical depression a possible handicap.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
It is a form of chronic depression that can endure for at least two years. While it’s not as severe as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), it can still have a big impact on daily life. People with dysthymia often feel down for long periods, have little interest in activities, and struggle to focus. These ongoing symptoms can make it hard to work or carry out normal daily tasks, which can make it a disability.
Bipolar Disorder
It is a condition in which a person’s mood swings alternate between high energy (mania) and low energy (depression). The depressive episodes can be similar to those seen in MDD, with symptoms like sadness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These depressive phases can be severe enough to make it hard to do everyday activities, which means bipolar disorder can also be a disability.
Depression with Anxiety
Some people suffer both depression and anxiety simultaneously. This combination can make treatment more difficult and may impede an individual’s capacity to work. When both depression and anxiety are severe and interfere with daily tasks, they can be considered a disability. This combination can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform at work or manage everyday responsibilities.
The Process of Applying for Disability Benefits
If you’re thinking about applying for disability benefits because of depression, it’s important to understand how the process works:
Gather Documentation
Collect your medical records, treatment history, and any documents from your healthcare providers that show how your depression affects your daily life.
Complete the Application
Complete the forms provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA) or your local disability office.
Attend Consultative Examinations
Sometimes, you may need to go through additional evaluations by doctors chosen by the SSA.
Await a Decision
The SSA will evaluate your application and determine if you fulfill the criteria for disability benefits.
What If You Don’t Qualify for Disability Benefits?
If you don’t qualify for disability benefits, don’t worry—you have other options.
You can appeal the decision from the Social Security Administration (SSA). To do this, go to their website and fill out a form online. You have 60 days from the date you get the ruling to file your appeal.
You have 60 days from the date you get the decision to file an appeal. In return, they might offer changes like a different work schedule or more break time to help you manage.
Acknowledging Depression as a Disability Matters
Depression affects more than just a person’s mood—it can make everyday tasks incredibly difficult. Recognizing it as a disability is important for getting the right support, whether through benefits or workplace adjustments. However, not everyone qualifies for these resources, which shows the need for more awareness and better mental health care. It’s essential to understand how depression impacts people’s ability to live a full life, not just get by.