Experienced Representation for a Difficult Disorder
Schizophrenia is named in the Social Security Administration's (SSA) listing of impairments under mental disorders. Obtaining Social Security Disability/Supplemental Security Income (SSD/SSI) benefits can still be difficult, however. Like many mental disorders, the diagnosis of schizophrenia is based largely on observations, so physician subjectivity can be an issue. The SSA staff who reviews the medical evidence may also have very different opinions about whether the evidence meets the criteria for benefits.
The complex nature of the disorder and the requirements for proving its debilitating effects on an individual's ability to work require assistance from an experienced lawyer. At Milam Law, we have been representing people with SSD and SSI claims for more than 20 years. Our attorneys offer caring support and wise counsel during all stages of your claim.
Information on this website is provided as a service of Milam Law. Contact us regarding Social Security Disability claims and denials.
The Symptoms Are Debilitating
Even relatively mild cases of schizophrenia can cause an inability to interact socially, to concentrate for any length of time and to think coherently. Individuals with schizophrenia may also display unpredictable behavior. Severe cases include symptoms such as paranoia, catatonia, delusions and hallucinations.
Schizophrenia can cause people to have trouble paying attention, remembering information and making sense of information. Patients may also experience a loss of motivation, loss of interest in activities, withdrawal from others and trouble caring for themselves.
When applying for benefits based on schizophrenia, you must present a documented history of a minimum of two years of schizophrenia with symptoms lessened by medications or psychotherapy. The individual must also provide evidence of repeated episodes of worsening decompensation or inability to function with increased mental demands or a current history of one or more years of inability to function outside a highly supportive living arrangement.
Schizophrenia and Social Security Disability Attorney
Milam Law has offices across the Central Valley, including Fresno, Sacramento and Modesto. For a free consultation, please contact us online or call us toll free at 877-840-3508.
