Did you know having bipolar 1 can qualify you for disability benefits? “I finally get my disability check tomorrow,” shared a member of MyDepressionTeam living with bipolar 1 disorder. According to the Americans With Disabilities Act, a disability is a “physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities,” including mental health conditions.

If you or a loved one is living with bipolar 1, you may be wondering whether someone with the condition can qualify for disability benefits and where to begin with the application. Securing disability benefits can be crucial for people with a variety of chronic physical and mental health conditions — such as bipolar 1 — who are unable to maintain regular employment.

This article will simplify the process of qualifying for disability benefits, including gathering required medical evidence and strengthening your claim.

Can You Get Disability for Bipolar 1 Disorder?

Bipolar 1 disorder is characterized by severe manic episodes (extreme mood swings) that last at least one week and sometimes also involve depressive episodes. The condition can have a huge impact on one’s ability to work.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to individuals who meet specific criteria. To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must demonstrate that your condition, including bipolar 1, is severe enough to prevent you from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” for at least one year. Let’s break that down further.

Qualifications for Disability for Bipolar 1 Disorder

The SSA uses a set of criteria, called the Blue Book, to determine a person’s eligibility for disability benefits. Under section 12.04, the SSA covers bipolar 1 disorder alongside depressive, bipolar, and related disorders. The section summarizes specific requirements to demonstrate that you qualify for benefits.

First, you must provide medical evidence of bipolar disorder, which can be characterized by at least three of the following symptoms:

• Pressured speech (speaking rapidly without stopping)
• Flight of ideas (having many unrelated thoughts that come quickly)
• Inflated self-esteem
• Decreased need for sleep
• Distractibility
• Involvement in dangerous activities
• Increased goal-directed activity

Second, you must show evidence of one of the following situations:

• You have either an extreme limitation in one or some limitation in two particular areas of functioning — the ability to understand information, interact with others, concentrate, and/or manage yourself.
• Your condition is “serious and persistent,” with at least two years’ worth of documentation for medical treatment and/or therapy. You’ll also need evidence that you can’t adjust well to changes to your daily life.

Medical Evidence and Documentation

Even if these qualifications apply to your condition, the key to a successful disability claim is having comprehensive medical documentation.

It’s important to include as many detailed medical records as possible. Notes from a doctor, psychologist, or therapist that include your diagnosis, treatment plan, medications, or hospitalizations can help support your claim. Your records must show a consistent history of your treatment and its effects on your bipolar 1 disorder.

Psychiatric evaluations from your psychiatrist or psychologist are critical. They should give detailed descriptions about the severity of your symptoms and how they affect your life, as well as describe your treatment.

Functional reports can also be useful pieces of evidence. These documents from health care providers explain how your condition limits your ability to perform daily activities, especially those related to employment.

Applying for Disability: The Process and Challenges

The process of applying for disability can be lengthy and challenging. Understanding these steps can help you know what to expect along the way.

Preparing the Initial Disability Application

First, you’ll need to prepare your application by collecting detailed medical records, following the requirements listed above. You’ll need to provide information about your medical condition, work history, and how bipolar 1 affects your ability to work.

When you’re ready, you can complete the SSA’s online application or visit your local SSA office. You can find your local office with this online tool.

Getting a Medical Evaluation

The SSA may require that you see one of their doctors for a consultation. This independent evaluation is meant to assess how severe your condition is.

Waiting for a Decision

It usually takes from six to eight months to get an initial decision. During this time, the SSA is reviewing your medical records and may request additional evidence. Eventually, you’ll receive your decision in the mail or via the online Social Security portal.

Handling Denial

If your initial claim is denied, you may appeal the decision or request a reconsideration. This step adds time to the process but sometimes ends up in an approval.

Receiving Acceptance

Once you’re approved, your benefits start at least six months after the first documented date of your disability. The amount of monthly financial support that you’ll receive depends on your lifetime average earnings covered by Social Security.

Continuing Benefits

Once you get your disability benefits, the steps aren’t over. You must periodically send updates to the SSA about your condition. This will require continuing to see a doctor, follow your treatment plan, and keep your medical records organized.

7 Tips for Getting Disability Benefits for Bipolar 1

Successfully obtaining disability benefits is a tough process that relies on careful preparation and a well-supported application. Here are seven tips to strengthen your claim.

1. Keep Detailed Medical Records

Maintain an organized file of all your medical records. This could be printed pages kept in a binder or folder, documents saved on your computer or tablet, or both. This file should include every visit, treatment, and note from your health care providers for as far back as you can access. It may take a while to compile all these records, but they can help you paint a complete picture of your condition.

Organize your medical records, including every visit, treatment, and note from your health care providers for as far back as you can access.

2. Get Supporting Statements

Request that your doctors and mental health professionals write detailed letters to describe how bipolar 1 affects your ability to work. These statements should highlight the severity of your symptoms and how they make it challenging for you to get a job and maintain employment.

3. Document the Impact on Your Life

Your perspective matters, too. Reflect on your daily experiences living with bipolar 1, and consider how much it affects your ability to perform daily tasks. This may include trouble concentrating, inability to complete tasks, and difficulty taking care of yourself. You can use this reflection to submit a personal statement as part of your Social Security application.

4. Present Your Case Honestly

When you’re completing your application, focus on how your condition affects your ability to work. Be specific about the challenges you face, and avoid minimizing your symptoms. Provide detailed examples to give a clear picture of the impact bipolar 1 has on your life.

5. Get Help From a Professional

Disability law can be complex, and you can enlist professionals to help you get the benefits you deserve. An attorney or disability advocate can help you navigate the application from beginning to end, and they can represent you if your claim is denied.

An attorney or disability advocate can help you navigate the application from beginning to end, and they can represent you if your claim is denied.

6. Prepare for the Worst

Many times, disability claims are denied at first. If this happens, don’t give up. Review why you were denied and work with an attorney or advocate to strengthen your case and reapply.

7. Continue Your Treatment Plan

If you receive disability, the SSA will want to make sure you’re following a treatment plan. Attending regular appointments, going to therapy sessions, and taking medications are important to demonstrate that you’re continuing to manage your condition.

The Importance of Persistence

Securing disability benefits can be a critical step in managing your financial and health needs. By understanding the qualifications, the application process, and these practical tips, you can apply with a strong claim. It’s a long process, so stay persistent and seek support along the way.

Talk to Others Who Understand

MyDepressionTeam is the social network for people with depression and related mental health conditions and their loved ones. On MyDepressionTeam, more than 148,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with different mental health conditions.

Have you been able to get disability benefits for a mental illness? What advice do you have for others navigating financial support programs? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.