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March 2003 (Volume 81)
Quarterly Article
Scott Bilder
David Mechanic
Sep 23, 2026
Sep 22, 2026
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Persons with mental disorders are less likely to be working and more likely to apply for and receive SSDI and/or SSI benefits than are those without such disorders. Data from the National Health Interview Survey on Disability (NHIS-D) were examined to identify the predictors of SSDI/SSI application and receipt among persons with self-reported mental disorders. Compared with nonapplicants, applicants had higher levels of disability, fewer financial and interpersonal resources, and better access to information about the disability programs. Among applicants, similar factors distinguished recipients from those who did not receive benefits. Navigating the disability process is associated with the extent of impairment, economic and social disadvantage, and linkage to the disability determination process.
Author(s): Scott Bilder; David Mechanic
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Volume 81, Issue 1 (pages 75–106) DOI: 10.1111/1468-0009.00039 Published in 2003