When people are applying for disability benefits, one important factor is how long that disability is expected to last. In some cases, a person may have a disabling condition, but it can eventually be cured through medical intervention, whether that means surgery, a treatment program, rehabilitation or something else.
However, disability benefits are not just for physical disabilities. They can also apply to mental conditions or illnesses. For instance, someone could be suffering from a psychotic disorder like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Is it possible for a condition like this to be cured?
Treatment and control
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are many different medications that can often be used to provide treatment for the symptoms of a mental illness or to help control and maintain it. But this is often far different than curing the disorder. It still exists, and using the medication is necessary.
For instance, antipsychotic medications are often used for bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, while antidepressants may be used if someone has clinical depression. While the person is taking these medications, it can help them address their symptoms, and they may even be able to work. But this is a far cry from curing the disease, which still exists and could become more prominent if the person stopped taking their medication.
Issues like this are why it is so important to work with medical professionals and gather all applicable medical evidence when applying for benefits, including a prognosis for how long the condition is expected to last. Those who are going through this process also need to be well aware of their legal rights and the steps they can take to seek the benefits they deserve.
