Does social security recognize mental illness(bipolar disorder) as a reason for receiving benefits?

Yes, if it's severe and prevents you from working, you can.

You will also need to provide the following documents to apply;
* your Social Security card or a record of your Social Security number;
* your birth certificate or other proof of your age. If you do not have a birth certificate, you may request one from the State where you were born. See Where to Write for Vital Records for details on where to write in your State.
* information about the home where you live, such as your mortgage or your lease and landlord's name;
* payroll slips, bank books, insurance policies, burial fund records, and other information about your income and the things you own;
* if you're signing up for disability, the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of doctors, hospitals, and clinics that have seen you; and
* proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status.
Source(s):

http://www.ssa.gov/d&s1.htm

YES THEY DO. CHECK INTO IT ON TUESDAY.
Unfortunately, yes they do. It depends on the severity of it.
http:///www.ssa.gov
In some cases, depending on the severity of the symptoms and weather or not medication controls the symptoms. You can apply for social security disability on line at www.socialsecurity.gov You would need to have all psychiatric and medical reports, history, and medications available for reference. Best of luck to you
Not unless you can get a doctor and lawyer together to work on your claim. Plan on taking a year or two with it. Or, you can get this book:
http://www.seekwellness.com/bookstore/bo...

It cured my depression when several doctors and medications did practically nothing.
Experience. Over a year of drug and depression free living.