Tragically, suicide remains a serious public health concern. According to data provided by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), there are more than 1.3 million suicide attempts nationwide each year. Professional help is available for those who need it, including from organizations such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Arkansas Crisis Center.
You may be wondering if financial help is available in the form of Social Security disability benefits. An individual with suicidal tendencies may potentially qualify for benefits. In this article, our Arkansas Social Security disability lawyers explain the key things to know about suicidal ideation and SSDI/SSI claims.
Social Security Disability: Suicidal Tendencies is Not a Listed Impairment
As a starting point, it is important to clarify that suicidal ideation is not a listed impairment under the Social Security Blue Book. In effect, this means that proving that you have suicidal tendencies is not, by itself, sufficient to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
That being said, it would be a mistake to assume that you are ineligible to apply for SSDI or SSI benefits for suicidal tendencies. You may be eligible for disability compensation through a Social Security claim if you have an underlying mental health impairment that prevents you from working.
An Individual May Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits Under Section 12.04
Most people who seek Social Security disability benefits for being suicidal do so by qualifying under a mental health disorder. More specifically, the disorders found under Section 12.04 of the Social Security Blue Book or Section 12.06 of the Social Security Blue Book. The following mental health disorders are all listed impairments under these sections:
- Depressive disorder;
- Bipolar disorder;
- Anxiety disorder; and
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
While you may not be able to qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits on the basis of being suicidal alone, you could potentially be eligible for disability benefits if you have a mental health issue (depression, bipolar disorder, severe anxiety, etc.) that prevents you from working on the full time basis. Do not assume that you are ineligible for benefits.
Medical Records are Key to a Social Security Disability Claim
A person dealing with suicidal feelings needs immediate professional help. It could be the thing that saves their life. No matter the circumstances you or your loved one is dealing with, there is always support available. Social Security disability claims are based on medical records. Any records related to treatment for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions are relevant to your SSDI or SSI claim.
Call Our Arkansas Social Security Disability Lawyers for Confidential Help
At GCC Law Firm, our Arkansas Social Security disability attorneys are compassionate, reliable advocates for people and families. Contact us today for a free, strictly confidential appointment with a lawyer. If you have any questions about suicide, depression, and Social Security disability claims, we can help. With an office in Rogers, we provide Social Security disability representation throughout Northwest Arkansas, Eastern Oklahoma, Kansas, and Southwest Missouri.