[TheJoker]

I know mental illness make is difficult for people to function in daily lives, work, etc. Can they be classified as disabilities? If so, who makes that decision?

[just ur average girl]

bi polarschizophreniaetc etcdoctors make that decision i believe

[brandnewpunky]

yes they can all be considered a'disability'. the therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Included in a definition of almost all mental illnesses is that it must"affect functioning in their daily lives."and that is what a disability is.

[niki girl]

They can, but they would have to severely effect your life, like you have no ability to work, etc. Not sure who makes the decision, probably a very good doctor, or psychiatrist.

[Noon W]

I think most because It can interfere with how they live.

[Sam Hill]

Even if a person has problems with authority.It can be and is considered a disability.

[honey]

Any mental illness diagnosis can vary from mild to severe. A person can also be considered both mild and severe depending on how they are functioning at a particular point in time, and whether or not their situation changes with medications,etc... people can function extremely normally when their condition is controlled effectively, and likewise, their condition can be very debilitating when they are unwell.A psychiatrist will make a determination periodically about whether or not a patient is"disabled"by their illness.

[purpleprincess724]

Classifying a mental illness as a disability really depends on the severity of the illness and how debilitating it is. I have major depressive disorder and am not on disability. However, the ones on disability are usually those with schizophrenia, manic depression, and multiple personality disorders. Yet, a person with major depressive disorder could be put on disability if they are a threat to themselves and some people with depression, who are put on strong prescriptions like lithium cannot work because of the side effects. But again, only a psychiatrist can put a patient on disability and the classification really depends on the person and their situation.

[skay]

Call your SSI office or get on the net. They have all the info you need. Good Luck.You have to fill out alot of paper work. And, they will send you to a Dr. Get an Lawyer, they will help you! Good Luck.

[wayne a]

Basically a disability is any condition that hinders your day-to-day activities. This includes all mental illnesses. Because this is the criteria used it is largely up to the patient whether or not they have a disability. If you feel your anxiety, mood, or anything other mental or physical condition is preventing you from working, going to school, enjoying or participating in social activities you owe it to yourself to see a doctor and review your treatment options.