In our last post, we discussed the manner in which research is underway that could mean an ability to identify genetic markers of mental illnesses. However, in some mental illnesses, the condition is brought about by trauma to the brain. Very often, veterans with traumatic brain injuries develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Additionally, victims of car accidents or workplace accidents can suffer a traumatic brain injury that impacts the manner that they express or feel emotions.
All of this is to say that the brain is an incredibly complex, delicate organ. Injuries, illnesses, and conditions within the brain and the manifestation of these symptoms are not well understood at present. This lack of a comprehensive understanding makes treatments, cures, and preventions incredibly difficult.
Accordingly, many individuals in Maryland that suffer with these and related illnesses or diseases are unable to work. Many of these individuals will claim Social Security Disability benefits by way of providing shelter and food for themselves when they cannot work. While SSDI benefits are crucial for these individuals, the benefits do little by way of improving the condition that prevents the individual from being able to work.
President Obama announced the Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies, or the BRAIN initiative, earlier this week. This initiative consists of $100 million in funding to be used by some of the brightest minds in research and medicine to better understand the human brain and how it functions. This will be pivotal in understanding and better treating mental illnesses, epilepsy, Alzheimer's, traumatic brain injuries, autism and a host of other illness and conditions that impact the brain.
All of this is very exciting news for the millions of individuals that struggle with these circumstances. Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to better treat and cure victims like this in Maryland. Until then, Social Security Disability benefits remain the best solution at present for an individual struggling in this manner to obtain assistance. An experience attorney can be vital in this pursuit.