Mental Health Advocate Lawyers
Cognitive, Psychological and Psychiatric Mental Health Issues
In many cultures and communities there is still a taboo about discussing a psychiatric or mental health disorders. Stigma and discrimination have always been a major barrier for people with a psychiatric disorder. A Mental health issue is often seen differently than asthma or a back problem. Somehow it is your fault or a sign of weakness. However, mental health disorders are as real as asthma or a back problem. You are not alone. Studies have shown that one in 8 Americans have suffered a severe psychiatric episode. That’s over 40 million people!
There are many types of mental health disorders but they can be broken down into a few categories. Anxiety disorders include panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and phobias. Depressive disorders include major depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. Personality disorders can include borderline personality, avoidant personality disorder and explosive personality disorder. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia fall into their own psychiatric category.
Your mental health can be influenced by a variety of factors, including life events, your genetics, daily habits, environment or even biology. It doesn’t matter whether your psychiatric illness is a result of something organic such as a chemical imbalance or whether you experienced a traumatic event. The diagnosis of many mental disorders is subjective and based on a medical professional’s observations and understanding of your description of symptoms. It can therefore be difficult and time consuming to diagnose and treat your condition. As a result, it is extremely important to communicate what you are feeling with your treating doctor, psychiatrist, therapist or other mental health professional.
Mental health disorders can impact your daily life in many ways. Some people living with a psychiatric condition may find that there are periods of time during which they can no longer sustain employment. For example, your psychiatric condition may make it difficult for you to interact with others, understand complex instruction or in extreme cases you may find it impossible to leave your house. The Social Security Administration will consider all of these limitations in assessing whether you are entitled to Disability benefits.
This is where our expertise lies: in dealing with the government. We’re here to help you get the benefits you need and deserve so that you can focus on your life.
If your symptoms are so severe that you are considering harming yourself, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline and speak with someone. 1-800-273-8255