Is my mental health condition a 'disability'?

'Mental health condition’, ‘mental illness’, 'psychosocial disability' and other terms, are used to describe a range of disorders that can affect thoughts, emotions and behaviours, that vary in both severity and duration. These conditions can include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use, schizophrenia and many others.

While some people may not be significantly impacted in their daily lives, others may face severe challenges in functioning within the community, at home, and in the workplace. When a mental health condition severely affects a person's daily life, self-care and community participation, it may be considered a 'psychosocial disability'.

Whilst labels like 'disability' may not be relevant to some people's experience, it is important to understand the distinctions with which conditions can unlock vital financial support schemes.

Disability Employment Services

If you live with anxiety, depression or another mental health condition you may be eligible for our Disability Employment Services (DES). You don't necessarily need to be diagnosed with a 'psychosocial disability', only that your mental health condition affects your capacity to work in some way. This can be verified by a treating medical practitioner through this Centrelink form.

NDIS Services

If a person's mental health condition is considered a 'psychosocial disability', they may be eligible for NDIS support, however, a diagnosis of a condition in itself is not enough. In order to be eligible for funding through the NDIS, a psychosocial disability assessment must be carried out.

Message us