If you have been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and are unable to work, you may qualify for disability benefits.
Can I Get Disability for Bipolar Disorder?
If you have bipolar disorder, typically characterized by cyclic mania or periods of euphoria followed by deep depression, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Bipolar disorder is usually diagnosed based on self-reported experiences and reports by family members and friends. Your doctor will usually also conduct a clinical assessment to confirm the diagnosis.
If your bipolar disorder is constant and impairs your ability to function in a work environment, you should apply for SSDI or SSI benefits.
The Social Security Blue Book LIsting
Social Security’s Blue Book includes a “listing” for bipolar disorder. This means if your medical records show you meet the listing, you may be approved quicker. To meet the medical listing, you must have medical evidence of three or more of the following:
a. Pressured speech;
b. Flight of ideas;
c. Inflated self-esteem;
d. Decreased need for sleep;
e. Distractibility;
f. Involvement in activities that have a high probability of painful consequences that are not recognized; or
g. Increase in goal-directed activity or psychomotor agitation.
You must also have either an extreme limitation of one, or marked limitation of two, of the following:
- Understanding, remembering, and applying information.
- Interacting with others.
- Concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace.
- Adapting or managing yourself.
You may also qualify based on the listing alone if your bipolar disorder is serious and persistent, meaning you have a medically documented history of the existence of the disorder over at least two years. In that case, you must also have medical treatment that is ongoing and diminishes the symptoms and signs of your mental disorder as well as limited ability to make marginal adjustments to changes in your environment that are not already part of your daily life.
If you do not meet the listing, that does not necessarily mean your claim will be denied. You will instead have to prove that you are unable to perform any job that exists in the national economy.
Need Help Applying for Disability with Bipolar Disorder?
If you need help applying for SSDI or SSI, or if you need help appealing an unfavorable decision/denial, contact a local attorney today. An attorney can point you in the right direction. An attorney can also help you collect the medical evidence to prove your disability. To contact us, call (904) 657-0579.