SSI & Mental Disorders: Schizophrenic, Paranoia and other Psychotic disorders
Individuals suffering from mental disorders such as schizophrenia, paranoia or other psychotic disorders may be eligible for Social Security benefits. These disorders are characterized by a deterioration of functioning. In order to be eligible for Social Security income, an individual must show that particular requirements are met.
One way an individual can qualify is if they show that they have the conditions in two different groups. The first group includes showing that an individual has medically documented frequent or reoccuring symptoms of the condition. The Social Security Association defines these conditions include delusions; disorganized behavior; incoherence or illogical thinking or poverty of content of speech if associated with blunt, flat or inappropriate affect; or emotional withdrawal or isolation. The other group includes proving that the person has had restriction of activities; difficulties in social functioning; difficulty concentrating or pacing oneself; or decompensation that has occured for more than one episode.
Another way an individual can qualify is having a medical history that proves the individual has had the condition for more than two years that has limited their ability to work. The individual must be on medication or receiving support. The individual must also show that they have had decompensation for several episodes; that an increase in demands or an environment change could cause decompensation; or that they have lived in a supported living situation for a year or more.