The number of individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance concerning mental illness has doubled since 1998. This may be in part due to the definition for a disabling condition covered by SSDI having changed.
In any case, there is $150 billion spent annually in the United States concerning the treatment of mental illness. There appears to be recognition across the country that mentally ill individuals will be less likely to make as much income. The disability from which these individuals suffer will also lead to decreases in productivity at work.
Though not greatly studied in the United States, we are seeing an increasing amount of stress at the workplace. Employees are emulating those that are work-driven. With this sort of work environment in place, stress-management programs at work will likely only have a minimal effect.
There is no single solution that will work for all employers. However, until human resource executives involve themselves in such programs, these will likely do little to remedy the problem.
In the meantime, mentally disabled individuals need someplace to turn for assistance. Without receiving at least the minimum income to live their daily lives, there is little chance these individuals will also be able to avail themselves of resources that can help them better their situation and perhaps at some point again become productive workers.
The best opportunity for mentally disabled individuals in Maryland to receive these resources is also by receiving SSDI benefits. However, as the process can be confusing for those applying, they may wish to avail themselves of attorneys who can assist these individuals apply. These attorneys understand the kinds of proof needed to demonstrate a disability meets SSDI requirements.
