Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness

The term mental illness relates to conditions that influence the way that people think, feel and behave. According to the American Psychiatric Association almost one out of every five American adults suffers from some form of mental illness and that some mental illnesses can directly affect the way people engage with their friends, families and work environments. Depression and anxiety are two mental illnesses that many North Carolina residents may have familiarity with in their own lives; schizophrenia, however, is a less common but equally debilitating mental illness.

Schizophrenia is condition that impacts a person’s ability to interpret what is happening around them. Individuals who suffer from schizophrenia may have hallucinations or may impaired thinking that puts them or others around them in danger. Although some cases of schizophrenia may be treatable, not all cases respond the same to medications.

Because schizophrenia can have such a pervasive and devastating impact on a person’s life they may not be able to hold down a job. The inability of a person to work can have serious consequences on their life and the lives of those who depend on them for their support and income. When schizophrenia arises to the level of a disability it may be used as the basis of a disability benefits claim from the Social Security Administration.

This post is not offered to diagnose, treat or provide any medical advice. It is offered as an informative introduction to a serious mental illness that may, if applicable, qualify a person to receive help and support in the form of government-provided benefits. Disability benefits lawyers can guide those coping with mental illnesses through the steps needed to seek out possible options.