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Is Bipolar Disorder a Disability?
According to Mental Health America, around 2.3 million Americans have bipolar disorder. Previously referred to as manic-depressive, this mental illness is characterized by mood swings where the sufferer experiences extreme highs and lows within relatively short periods of time.
With all the challenges that come with it, it’s worth asking, is bipolar disorder a disability? The short answer is bipolar disorder can be considered a mental health disability if the life of the individual suffering from it is majorly impacted.
Let’s get a better understanding of bipolar disorder and the legal provisions that patients may be entitled to.
What Is a Disability?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a disability as “a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.”
Does Bipolar Disorder Qualify as a Disability?
Whether or not someone with bipolar disorder is considered to have a disability depends on:
The severity of their symptoms
How symptoms impact their ability to perform daily tasks, work, and participate in other major life activities
For those who are experiencing significant limitations due to bipolar disorder, legal protections are available through the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Bipolar Disorder’s Impact on Individuals
Some people with bipolar disorder can manage their symptoms with treatment and still lead fulfilling lives while others struggle to perform daily tasks.
Eligibility for a Disability Certificate
To be eligible for a disability certificate for bipolar disorder, an individual will typically need to demonstrate that their condition significantly impairs their ability to work, care for themselves, or participate in other important aspects of daily life.
This may involve providing medical documentation (such as a diagnosis from a mental health professional), information about the individual’s symptoms, and how those symptoms affect their ability to function, their work history, and income level.
Why Get a Disability Certificate
With a disability certificate, you can get special benefits and allowances that are backed by the US government. These special allowances include additional support in the following areas:
Benefits and insurance
Getting caregiver support
Financial assistance
Federal and local disability programs
Jobs and education
Disability rights
You can find out more by visiting the government’s disability page.
What Is Bipolar Disorder Really?
Bipolar disorder causes extreme shifts in energy, activity levels, mood, and one’s ability to function.
The shifts or episodes can range from manic episodes (excessive energy, elation, impulsivity) to depressive episodes (feelings of sadness, hopelessness, low energy), and sometimes a mixture of both.
What Bipolar Can Look Like
During manic episodes, individuals with bipolar disorder may feel on top of the world, full of energy, and ready to take on anything. However, this can quickly turn into impulsivity and risk-taking behavior, such as engaging in reckless spending, drug or alcohol abuse, and promiscuity.
Mania can be a very dangerous state. Seek help if a person is experiencing symptoms of mania such as a decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, or increased talkativeness.
Depressive episodes can also be difficult to manage. Individuals with bipolar disorder may feel overwhelmed by sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. They may also experience changes in appetite, sleep, and energy levels. Additionally, individuals may find it difficult to find motivation or pleasure in activities they once enjoyed.
Symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, fatigue, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide, require immediate professional help.
In between episodes, it’s important to manage symptoms and maintain stability through regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and consistent sleep habits. Developing a network of friends, family, and mental health professionals also helps.
