Can Mental Health Issues Count as Long-Term Disabilities?

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Mental health issues are among the medical system’s most pressing concerns today. Countless people suffer from disabling mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. At the same time, some people might wonder if these mental health issues can count as long-term disabilities. The answer depends on the situation’s specific nature and the insurance policy’s wording. Still, anyone with questions or concerns should contact a long-term disability lawyer for help. What factors affect whether someone’s mental health issues could be counted as a long-term disability?

Types of Mental Health Issues That Might Qualify

Mental health issues are a significant problem, and numerous mental health issues could qualify as long-term disabilities. For example, individuals with bipolar disorder often oscillate between periods of mania and depression. When experiencing either of these episodes, they might be unable to work. Therefore, bipolar disorder could qualify as a long-term disability.

Depression could also qualify as a long-term disability in certain situations. Depression can make it difficult for someone to focus, keep up with their job duties, or even get out of bed in the morning. Even some forms of anxiety could make it hard for someone to go to work in the morning. Mental health issues, like other medical issues, can vary significantly in scope and severity. Some mental health issues might make it hard for someone to work.

Review the Information in the Contract

While there is no doubt that mental health issues can be disabling, people must review the information in their long-term disability insurance policy. Usually, this policy does a great job of spelling out what the contract covers and what medical issues are not. This includes mental health issues.

There are plenty of policies out there, and not all of them will include mental health issues as a reason for paying out a long-term disability benefit. Individuals should review the contract’s wording and ensure that mental health issues are included in the document.

See a Doctor and Ask for Medical Records

Even if someone has mental health issues, the insurance company will not simply take someone’s word that they have a long-term disability. Therefore, it is critical for anyone with a mental health issue that is disabling to reach out to their doctor as soon as possible. Their primary care doctor may be able to refer them to a mental health professional who can start the treatment process. Then, do not forget to ask for a copy of the medical records from the mental health professional. These might be required to support any claim of a long-term disability, particularly one that stems from a mental health issue. Then, contact a lawyer specializing in this area for more help.

Contact an Attorney for Help

Ultimately, the question of whether mental health issues can count as long-term disabilities is a complicated one. While there is no doubt that there are mental health issues that are chronic medical conditions, and some of them can be disabling, it is up to the insurance company to write the policy to define what qualifies as a long-term disability. Anyone with questions or concerns about whether mental health issues are covered by their long-term disability insurance policies should reach out to the insurance company for clarification. Then, do not forget to contact a lawyer who can also review the contract’s wording.

Can mental health issues be considered long-term disabilities?

It depends on the insurance policy’s wording and the specific nature of the situation. Contact your insurance company or a lawyer specializing in this area for more help.

What types of mental health issues could qualify as long-term disability?

Bipolar disorder, depression, and even some forms of anxiety could qualify as long-term disabilities if severe enough to prevent someone from working. However, reviewing the insurance policy’s wording is essential before making any coverage assumptions.

How can I prove my mental health issue qualifies as a long-term disability?

Contact your doctor and ask for a copy of your medical records. This documentation can help support any claim related to a long-term disability. Also, consult an experienced lawyer specializing in this area for more help.