There are many mental illnesses that qualify for disability in Canada. In fact, the list of conditions that meet most insurance definitions of “mental illness” is comprehensive. The sticking point for those who suffer from these conditions is getting an application approved for either short-term or long-term benefits.
First, which mental illnesses qualify for disability, according to laws that govern Canada’s insurance industry? Most covered illnesses include mood disorders, like depression, anxiety disorders and the related “generalized anxiety disorder”, and similar issues. Other categories that are routinely covered include most psychotic disorders and personality disorders.
If you want to know what mental illnesses qualify for disability, you can find out by consulting the website of the Canada Mental Healthy Commission. The commission’s extensive list details all the major categories and sub-categories on a graphic that clearly spells out what mental illnesses qualify for disability.
Applying for Coverage
It’s easy enough to find out, via a quick online search, what mental illnesses qualify you for disability. The challenge is getting an application approved, especially for long-term conditions. Insurance companies have all sorts of ways to deny insurance to individuals who legitimately qualify. Because mental illness is a so-called “invisible” disease, employers, insurers and lawyers often don’t quite know how to deal with people who need help.
Very few professionals have trouble answering the question, “Do mental illnesses qualify for disability?” Because about one in five Canadian residents will face some form of the illness in their lifetime, few wonder about coverage. What sufferers do need help with is the application process.
Even if your own doctor thoroughly documents your symptoms and sends all required forms to the insurance company, you can still be denied. Insurers often hire their own physicians to second-guess the applicant’s doctor’s opinion. This situation often results in approval for short-term, 15-week benefits but denial for long-term coverage. Many applicants don’t realize that a letter stating that they have been approved for benefits only refers to the short-term payments that end after 15 weeks.
A lawyer’s job is to make certain you are applying for all the benefits you deserve, whether from government agencies, provincial entities or private insurers. In addition, your legal representative can challenge any previous or forthcoming denials of coverage based on solid medical documentation, timely filing of all paperwork and diligent pursuit of your claim.
The Double Challenge
When it comes to mental illness sufferers, the insurance industry views them as a problem. That’s why if you have one of the mental illnesses that qualify for disability, it is imperative to hire a lawyer. It’s not enough to know what mental illnesses qualify you for disability coverage. You need a lawyer who understands how to overcome insurance company objections and denials of coverage.
A competent legal representative can help you navigate the confusing arena of public and private insurance. In Canada, there are several sources for disability benefits in addition to private carriers. There are government and employer-sponsored programs that pitch in and offer financial relief for victims of mental illness.
The Least You Need to Know
Do mental illnesses qualify for disability? Of course, they do. But the fact remains that even if you have solid medical documentation, you are likely to be denied the first time you apply. So, in addition to knowing which mental illnesses qualify for disability, you should begin looking for a lawyer with relevant industry experience. The system is stacked against individuals who suffer from mental illness. Trying to “go it alone” is a noble, but usually disappointing quest. Hire competent help and apply for benefits as soon as you become disabled.
