Which of the following is considered a disability?

Mental illness is recognized as a disability due to its impact on an individual's functioning in daily life. Disabilities are conditions that substantially limit one or more major life activities, and mental illnesses can affect a person's ability to think, interact, work, and manage daily tasks.

Conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, and schizophrenia can interfere significantly with day-to-day operations and overall well-being. Legal definitions, such as those established in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reinforce the recognition of mental illness as a disability when it meets these criteria. This acknowledgment is essential for providing support and accommodations necessary for individuals dealing with such challenges.

In contrast, seasonal allergies, a case of the flu, and a paper cut generally do not meet the criteria for disability, as they are typically temporary or manageable without long-term effects on major life activities. Seasonal allergies may cause discomfort but do not usually disable a person in the same way that severe mental illness can. Similarly, the flu is generally a short-term illness that resolves, and a paper cut is a minor injury that does not hinder significant daily functioning.