A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can range from mild to severe – and you may never fully recover from a severe one. You may also never be able to return to work.
Social Security Disability Insurance benefits are one form of payment that could alleviate some of the pressure and you may qualify if you have a traumatic brain injury.
What do TBIs look like?
TBIs can range from mild to severe and their causes can come from numerous sources. For instance, motor vehicle accidents are one of the more common sources of TBIs. Any injury to the head is a medical emergency, even if symptoms are short-lived. Importantly, symptoms do not always present themselves immediately, so regular observation is important.
Symptoms of TBIs include nausea, headaches, loss of balance, and in the long-term, there may be a loss of motor function, memory loss, unstable moods, and other cognitive impairments. In essence, a severe head injury has the potential to completely turn a person’s life upside down, making it unfeasible to work.
How do you qualify for benefits?
The Social Security Administration has written guidelines for conditions that allow individuals to qualify for benefits. The guidelines consider the extent to which an individual’s ability to perform both physically and mentally has been obstructed by their condition. If an individual has significant problems with walking or using both arms and this is expected to last for an extended period, they are likely to qualify.
In terms of mental well-being, the SSA pays close attention to a person’s ability to retain information, socialize appropriately with co-workers and manage the stress of a modern-day working environment.
Even if you do not meet the written criteria outlined by the SSA, it may still be possible for you to qualify for benefits. Don’t guess about your eligibility. Someone with appropriate legal knowledge can offer invaluable guidance on your claim.