Severe Depression & SSDI

Caring Virginia Attorneys Providing Assistance

People who do not suffer from depression may not understand a person's inability to turn off the feelings associated with a depressive disorder. But depression is a real disorder that affects many individuals in the United States. In fact, more than 14 million Americans experience symptoms of depression every year.

There is no single cause for depression. The disorder can stem from a family history of depression; a traumatic event, such as the death of a loved one, a brain disorder, serious medical conditions or any type of psychological disorder. Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression as men.

Types of Depression

There are many different degrees of depression and various categories a person can fall into, including:

• Major: Disabling depression that hinders or prevents normal daily functions, such as eating, sleeping, working and enjoyment.
• Dysthymia: Long lasting depression that negatively affects a person's feelings or daily functions but is not as severe as major depression.
• Postpartum: Depression after childbirth.
• Bipolar disorder: Extreme mood swings that can inhibit daily functions.
• Psychotic: Depression that is associated with psychosis.
• Seasonal affective disorder: Depression that occurs when there is less natural sunlight during the winter months.

Symptoms

Depression is an illness that affects every person differently. It can be frustrating and disabling for both the victims as well as the family members of those surrounding the victims.

Those suffering from debilitating depression may experience:

• Extreme sadness
• Suicide thoughts or attempts
• Change in eating patterns
• Pain
• Change in sleeping patterns
• Fatigue
• Guilt
• Worthlessness
• Anxiety
• Emptiness
• Lack of interest
• Hopelessness
• Lack of concentration
• Crying

Depression can affect anyone, and when it does it hurts everyone. Long-term treatment is often necessary to care for victims of depression. Anti-depressant medications, psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy, hospitalization, lifestyle changes and other treatment options are available to help control the effects of depression. Even with these treatments, some patients are still unable to be active members of society.

Depression can be financially, emotionally, and physically draining on the victim as well as other family members.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with severe depression, you may be able to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to help cover the costs of treatment and lost wages. Virginia lawyers at Kalfus & Nachman PC in Virginia know the laws surrounding this complicated subject and will work to help you in any way possible. For a free consultation, please fill out our online form or call (855) 880-8163 today.