Noteboom The Law Firm

Undiagnosed Patients Being Prescribed Antidepressants

In a report from Health News, since 2007, there has been a 60% increase in the number of patients being prescribed antidepressants by non-psychiatrists, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Depression can be debilitating and lead to an individual being unable to work for an extended period of time, which could result in the need for long-term disability benefits.

Antidepressants are now the 3^rd leading type of medication prescribed in the United States. Researchers wanted to determine if this was a result of more people suffering from mental health problems; however, it's believed that many are using antidepressants to deal with stress, instead of turning to other substances such as drugs or alcohol.

Recent studies show more and more family doctors are prescribing antidepressants, since many patients can't afford to see a psychiatrist. Even if doctors are doing a better job at diagnosing depression, the National Institute of Mental Health indicates that they may not be referring enough patients to see a specialist. This could mean patients aren't receiving the appropriate type of treatment or receiving an accurate diagnosis.

If you suffer from a severe mental or physical medical condition that will require time off from work, then you should seek legal counsel. A South Florida long-term disability attorney can advise whether or not you're eligible for disability benefits.

Long-term disability benefits may be available to those who have purchased a disability plan from a private insurer or have coverage through an employer. Unfortunately, the insurers don't make it easy for the disabled to get access to the benefits they deserve.

When a severe medical condition makes it impossible for you to work and you've been denied your long-term disability benefits, an attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. can help you cut through the red tape and fight for your benefits, no matter where you live in the U.S! Contact a South Florida disability attorney today - 1-888-234-5758.