Psychosocial disability is the term used when a mental health condition has a lasting effect on someone's ability to take part in everyday life. Not everyone with a mental health condition has a psychosocial disability, and the NDIS has specific rules about when it can help. This guide explains what the term means, how eligibility works and where to find support.
If you're in crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hours) or 000 in an emergency.
What is psychosocial disability?
A psychosocial disability isn't a diagnosis. It describes the impact a mental health condition has on someone's life, such as difficulty managing daily tasks, keeping up with work or study, looking after a home, or connecting with other people. Conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, severe anxiety and PTSD can all lead to psychosocial disability for some people.
Can the NDIS help?
It can, if the rules are met. The NDIS looks for evidence that:
- the difficulties come from a mental health condition
- the impairment is permanent or likely to be permanent
- it substantially reduces the person's ability to do everyday activities
What if my condition comes and goes?
Many mental health conditions are episodic, with better and harder periods. The NDIS law makes clear that episodic or fluctuating impairments can still be considered permanent. The NDIA looks at how severe the changes are, how long they last and how often they happen. The NDIA's psychosocial disability page has more detail, including fact sheets.
Evidence that helps
- reports from treating professionals, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, GP or mental health worker, that describe the condition and its history
- information about treatments tried and what difference they made
- clear examples of how daily life is affected, including during harder periods
- how long the difficulties have been present, and why they're expected to continue
Our guide to how to apply for the NDIS covers the application steps.
What support can an NDIS plan include?
Plans are based on each person's goals, so they vary. For people with psychosocial disability, plans can include a psychosocial recovery coach, help with daily living and community participation, and therapy supports. The NDIS takes a recovery-focused approach, and plans can change as needs change.
If the NDIS isn't the right fit
Many people with mental health conditions get support outside the NDIS through Medicare-funded psychology (with a GP mental health plan), local mental health services and community programs. Our article on youth mental health support in Victoria lists some options for young people.
How Nhanya Foundation can help
Nhanya Foundation is a registered charity based in Werribee. Our advocacy and service navigation team can help you understand letters, organise evidence and prepare for reviews. We also offer psychology support, and young people aged 12 to 25 can ask about our Assertive Outreach & Stabilisation Program. Nhanya Foundation is not an NDIS-registered provider and is not a crisis service.
Need help with the NDIS or mental health support? Talk to Nhanya Foundation on 03 8595 9012 about advocacy or psychology.