What Are The Top 10 Disabilities?

Personal Injury | July 12, 2024

According to the most recent findings from the Social Security Administration, around 12 million adults were receiving Social Security benefits for disability in 2020. Many conditions and illnesses can qualify a person for disability benefits, but the process of qualifying isn’t always an easy one. 

If you have suffered a severe injury, such as from a car accident, you might be eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) either temporarily or permanently.  

Hundreds of disabilities may qualify a person for SSI. To see if you or someone you know might be eligible, visit the Social Security Administration website. Benefits may be available if you meet the criteria set forth. 

To start, you must have worked in a job or jobs covered by Social Security and have a medical condition that meets the organization’s definition of a disability, such as a severe brain injury. The following are the 10 most common disabilities.

1. Musculoskeletal System Conditions

Conditions of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissues are the most common disabilities. These conditions can be caused by injury or genetics. 

Example include:

  • Arthritis
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Ruptured discs
  • Scoliosis
  • Spine disorders

The symptoms of these disorders and other musculoskeletal/connective tissue conditions can be serious enough to prevent a person from employment. 

2. Mood Disorders

Mood disorders include a variety of mental health conditions, including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. Many people with mood disorders are fully capable of supporting themselves, but in some cases, symptoms are severe enough to be considered disabling. 

3. Nervous System

The nervous system includes all of the parts of the body that need to communicate with one another for the body to function. That includes the brain, nerves, spinal cord, and sensory organs. Some examples of disabling nervous system disorders include epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and brain or spinal cord injuries. 

4. Intellectual Disabilities

Intellectual disabilities include conditions like Down syndrome, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and developmental delays. 

5. Circulatory System Conditions

Damage to the circulatory system is typically the result of disease. 

Examples include:

Without a healthy circulatory system to provide oxygen, hormones, and nutrients to the body’s cells, it can be difficult to function daily. 

6. Psychotic Disorders

Many psychotic disorders can be well-managed with medication, but it may be difficult for a person with a history of psychosis to find a job or a workplace that can accommodate their needs. Some examples of disabling psychotic disorders include schizophrenia, delusions, and disorganized speech. 

7. Other Mental Health Disorders

Not all disabilities are visible. If the symptoms of a mental illness are severe or not successfully managed, an individual may qualify for SSI.

Some mental health conditions that affect function include:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Depression
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Struggling with cognitive issues like concentration and decision-making can be debilitating. 

8. Injuries

Whether it happens in the workplace or the playground, a physical injury can prevent someone from working temporarily or permanently. Injuries are some of the most traumatic causes of disability because they are sudden and unexpected. 

9. Chronic Organic Brain Syndrome

Chronic organic brain syndrome refers to diseases or injuries that cause a loss of brain function. Examples include amnesia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia. 

10. Neoplasms

Neoplasms affect a small number of people, but they can be life-threatening and debilitating. A neoplasm is an abnormal growth such as a lipoma or fibroma. These growths may be cancerous or precancerous. If they spread, neoplasms can affect the function of vital organs. 

Do You Qualify for Disability Benefits?

If you or someone you know has been injured or has become ill, you may be eligible for Social Security Insurance benefits. Life can be difficult when you are living with a disability, but receiving some financial assistance through SSI can help. Speak with an experienced attorney to learn how to apply for SSI. 

Contact the Louisville Personal Injury Law Firm of HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today

For more information, don’t hesitate to contact HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Louisville today. We have two convenient locations in Louisville and Fort Mitchell, Kentucky.

We proudly serve Jefferson County, Kenton County, and its surrounding areas:

HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers – Louisville, KY Office
600 W Main St Ste 200
Louisville, KY, 40202
(502) 540-5700

HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers – Fort Mitchell, KY Office
2380 Grandview Dr
Fort Mitchell, KY, 41017
(859) 578-4444

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