SSDI for Organic Mental Health Disorders

Organic Mental Disorders that Qualify for Disability Benefits

Organic mental disorders involve a physical problem in the brain that leads to serious behavioral or mental impairments. These disorders may or may not be permanent. They can be inherited or caused by injury, illness, hormones, or chemical imbalances in the body. Organic mental disorders are different from psychiatric disorders.

People with these conditions may face many challenges. They may not be able to work full-time or take part in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). Some may struggle to care for their basic physical needs. With proper evidence, individuals with organic mental disorders can qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

Symptoms and Qualifying Disorders

The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews disability claims using the Blue Book. This guide lists medical conditions and symptoms that qualify for SSDI.

Organic mental disorders often cause:

• Memory loss
  
• Confusion
  
• Agitation
  
• Loss of brain function
  

However, symptoms vary depending on the condition. Common examples include:

Delirium

Delirium can be caused by toxic substances, medications, infections, or a mix of factors. It develops suddenly and can lead to:

• Confusion
  
• Hallucinations
  
• Delusions
  
• Incoherent speech
  
• Disrupted sleep
  

Delirium may come with brief moments of clarity. In many cases, it can be reversed.

Dementia

Dementia involves a major decline in cognitive and intellectual functioning. Symptoms may include:

• Confusion
  
• Memory loss
  
• Mood changes
  
• Disorientation
  
• Personality changes
  
• Problems with speech
  

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia. It causes progressive loss of cognitive abilities. It also leads to abnormal tissue and protein buildup in the brain.

Amnesia

Amnesia is significant memory loss, either partial or complete. It usually affects short-term memory but can impact long-term memory as well. It may be temporary or permanent. Causes include illness, brain injury, shock, or psychological trauma.

The Blue Book also includes substance-induced cognitive disorder, caused by drugs, medications, or toxins.

In many cases, supportive care is the main form of treatment, though treatment options depend on the specific disorder.

Filing for SSDI With an Organic Mental Disorder

Claims for organic mental disorders fall under Blue Book Section 12.02: Neurocognitive Disorders. The SSA requires proof, including medical exams and test results.

To qualify, a claimant must show both:

1. Loss of significant cognitive abilities or major changes in mental state
2. At least one serious, ongoing symptom, such as:
   •  Disorientation to time and place
     
   •  Memory impairment
     
   •  Mood disturbances
     
   •  Measurable loss of intellectual ability
     
   •  Hallucinations or other perceptual disturbances
     

The condition must also cause major limitations in:

• Daily activities
  
• Social functioning
  
• Concentration or task completion
  

In addition, the SSA looks for:

• Episodes of worsening symptoms that last longer than before
  
• A history of needing a highly supportive living environment for a year or more
  
• Limited ability to perform basic work activities
  
• Other significant functional restrictions

Filing for Social Security Disability Benefits

If you or a loved one has an organic mental disorder and needs help filing for SSDI, Peña & Bromberg can assist. Our team understands the SSDI process and will gather and submit all required documentation. We work to give you the best chance of approval, whether you are filing your first claim or appealing a denial.

Contact Peña & Bromberg today to request a free consultation!