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Disability for Mental Illness

Mental Illness and Disability

The list of common mental illnesses is extensive, and continues to grow as we understand more about the condition. The most prevalent mental illnesses children face today include:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Anxiety
  • Panic Disorder
  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Eating Disorders

Mental illnesses range in severity, though a shared element among all of them is that people try to conceal their condition. Mental illness isn’t a stigma as it once was; anyone facing a mental illness – including children – shouldn’t be afraid to seek professional help.

Mental Illness in Children

Mental illness in children can be challenging to identify, as symptoms can vary from adults. It can be difficult for parents to distinguish between signs of mental illness, or normal, childhood behaviour.

Some warning signs for kids with this disability include:

  • Mood and/or Behaviour changes
  • Intense feelings
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Physical symptoms
  • Physical harm
  • Substance abuse

If you child shows any of these potential warning signs, you should have them tested for a mental health condition.

Disability for Mental Illness

Mental illness in children may qualify for the Child Disability Tax Credit and Child Disability Benefit in Canada. Children with mental disabilities need guidance, support, and treatment – which can all be provided through these disability benefits.

The two main forms of treatment for mental illness include psychotherapy, or talk therapy / behaviour therapy, and medications. Both methods of treatments can be costly, especially considering they must be ongoing to become effective.


The National Benefit Authority can help you claim disability for mental illness, via the Child Disability Tax Credit and Child Disability Benefit, on your child’s behalf. We have no upfront fees, and have assisted over 40,000 Canadians in successfully receiving their disability benefits.

Contact us for more information.