The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides financial support to millions of people, including those with disabilities or mobility issues. Under current rules, individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD may qualify for benefits.
Key Benefits Available
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is the most common disability benefit, with nearly 4 million claimants. Universal Credit has over 8 million claimants. Other benefits include Attendance Allowance for those over state pension age and Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
Mental Health Claims on the Rise
DWP data shows a sharp increase in PIP awards for anxiety and depression, rising from 2,500 per month in 2019 to 8,800 per month in 2024. Qualifying conditions include autism, ADHD, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
One claimant, a woman aged 50-65 with anxiety and depression, shared her experience: "I've done that much therapy that I know it all, but putting it in place sometimes is much harder than knowing what to do." Another individual with ADHD, OCD, and PTSD admitted: "I almost even wanted to hide things, not actually being honest because of embarrassment."
Success Rates for PIP Claims
According to DWP statistics, PTSD has a 58% success rate for PIP, OCD 55%, and anxiety and depression 50%. Turn2Us, a charity, advises: "If your mental health makes you too unwell to work, you are on a low income, or have care or mobility needs, you may be able to claim. Inform your work coach about any mental health difficulties so they can make reasonable adaptations."
