LAUSR

INTRODUCTION The decision to apply for disability benefits may be an important breakthrough in the life of those diagnosed with severe mental illness (SMI). Nevertheless, the literature regarding the application process is scarce. AIM To explore how people who receive mental-health disability benefits retrospectively perceive the process of applying for and receiving these benefits. METHODS Twenty-four in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with people whose mental-health disability was recognized in the past few years. RESULTS Analysis revealed three themes describing the process's chronological stages: Before submitting the claim (from deterioration to trust), During the claim process (from bureaucracy to understanding), After receiving recognition (from stigma to gratitude). Each stage includes facilitating factors (e.g., encouragement from professionals) and hindering factors (e.g., stigma, lack of knowledge and trust). DISCUSSION This is the first study to fully describe the experience of applying for mental-health disability benefits, as experienced by clients. The decision to apply is perceived as complex and difficult. Although clients are extensively preoccupied with stigma throughout the process, they are able to express gratitude for the opportunities made available to them. IMPLICATIONS Professional assistance throughout the claim is a key factor with the potential to change clients' experience of the entire process.