Disability Benefits for Bi-Polar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness marked by euphoric highs (manic episodes) followed by deep depressive states.   Bipolar manic episodes are often marked by difficulty concentrating, fleeting thoughts, no need for sleep, quickened speech, etc.  Depressive states can be marked by guilt, difficulty sleeping, suicidal thoughts, etc.   

How Can Bipolar Disorder Affect My Ability to Work?

Swings between manic and depressive states can occur quickly and without warning to those suffering with bipolar disorder.  This disorder can certainly affect one’s ability to hold jobs long term, even jobs for which one is highly qualified.  Those with untreated bipolar disorder often have difficulty completing tasks and working with others over a long period of time.  They may even be deemed disruptive in the workplace. 

Can I Receive Disability Benefits for Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is one of several mental impairments recognized by the Social Security Administration for the awarding of disability benefits.  Social Security has clearly defined criteria governing the diagnosis of bipolar disorder and the awarding of disability benefits based on such a disorder. 

To be found disabled due to bipolar disorder, you must be able to show that you have a medically documented case of the manic and then depressive states associated with bipolar disorder.  This case can be ongoing or sporadic, but must significantly impair your ability to function in social situations, concentrate on your work, and perform various daily activities. 

To make your case:

• Be under the care of psychiatrist, preferably for a year or more.
• Have a complete medical record involving your history with bipolar disorder.  This record must include treatment dates, medications received, hospitalizations, etc.
• Have your psychiatrist agree that you cannot gain or keep gainful employment as a result of your disorder
• Have detailed work and unemployment records
• Hire an attorney – while Social Security recognizes bipolar disorder, mental health cases can be difficult to prove and document, so the help of an attorney might prove greatly beneficial

Getting Help

Remember that mental health issues can be serious, and the Social Security Administration approves hundreds of such applications every year.  In fact, nearly 45 percent of applicants who have their disability claims approved have mental health issues, and 25 percent of disability cases are approved BECAUSE of mental diseases.  So if you have bipolar disorder, do your research, get a professional attorney on your side, and feel confident in applying for disability benefits.