It is overwhelming to grapple with depression, anxiety or another mental health issue, it is devastating when work is no longer possible. You may ask: do you qualify to get short term disability due to mental health conditions? The bad news is no, in most instances you can. However, the process may appear to be confusing initially.

Changa Institute will take it step by step so that you can understand the step-to-step process on how to qualify to receive short term disability for mental health conditions and receive the support you need.

What Does Short Term Disability Mental Health Mean?

To begin with the question is, what is meant by this? Short term disability mental health is an insurance scheme (your employer offers it, or you can buy it separately) that pays a portion of your income when you cannot work temporarily due to an affirmed mental illness.

It is not aimed at long-term recovery, as long-term disability is, but rather smaller periods of time, usually weeks or months. The coverage is usually between 40 and 70 percent of your salary depending on the policy.

Why People Seek Mental Health Short Term Disability?

Life does not give time to panic attacks and depressive episodes. You may require some leave days off work due to:

Major depressive disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Bipolar disorder
Critical burnout or stress responses.

These disorders are as debilitating as a physical injury. That is why we have mental health short term disability coverage, to help you have some breathing time to recuperate.

Eligibility Basics: Can You Get Short Term Disability for Mental Health?

The question is this: is it possible to obtain short term disability mental health reasons in the USA? Yes, however, there are major requirements:

Coverage: Before the problem occurs, you need a short-term disability policy, whether through your occupation or a personal one.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis and the treatment plan should be clear and outlined by a licensed mental health professional.
Evidence of Impairment: You will have to provide evidence regarding the fact that your condition does not allow you to perform some of the key job tasks.
Waiting Period: The majority of policies have a brief elimination period (usually 7 days) prior to the commencement of benefits.

Without some of these things, there can be a difficult time getting approval.

Step 1: Review Your Policy

Prior to applying, take a copy of your policy and read it thoroughly. Look for:

Definitions of disability
Mental health conditions coverage.
Necessary medical records.
Time constraints and percentage of benefits.

Certain plans also provide a clear description of the short-term disability for mental health coverage, whereas some might require more stringent requirements of proof.

Step 2: Seek a Professional Diagnosis

Your argument is based on professional records. Make a visit to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed therapist.

Ask them to:

Provide a formal diagnosis
Describe the symptoms and functional impairments.
Prescription of a treatment protocol and projections of recovery.

Detailed documentation by a mental health professional helps in making your case for short term disability of mental health.

Step 3: Clarify with Your Employer (In Case It Is Necessary)

Provided that your coverage is through employment, then consult the HR or benefits coordinator. It is not necessary to disclose all the personal details, only enough to initiate the process.

Ask:

What forms are required?
Who is filing medical documentation?
What is the duration of the process of approval?

Open communication will help to get things done more easily and your job will be safe when you are on leave.

Step 4: Basic Fulfilment of An Application

This is where most claims are put on hold. Double-check:

Every field is filled out
The statement of your doctor is enclosed.
Treatment dates and projected date of work are evident.

The rightly prepared application will allow you to be eligible to get short term disability due to mental health without having to waste needless back and forth.

What Happens After You Apply?

The insurance company will normally:

Review medical records
Perhaps, refer to your provider to seek clarification.
Accept or reject in several weeks.

In case of approval, payments begin after the waiting period. In case it is denied, do not panic as many people win their appeals especially in cases where they produce more documents.

Tips to Strengthen Your Claim

Want to boost your chances?

Upkeep therapy times and adhere to treatment regimens.
Store all medical records and appointment briefs.
Ask your provider to explain clearly to you how your symptoms restrict your performance at work.

The following processes prove that you really require short term disability for mental health leave.

Balancing Healing and Work Concerns

Flexibility of mental health may have both positive and negative feelings of relief, yet concern over employment or stigma. Keep in mind that the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) can secure your job provided that you satisfy some requirements.

There is nothing wrong with taking recovery first. It is not a weakness to pursue short term disability for mental health as it is a responsible move.

State Programs and Extra Support

Certain states such as California, New York and New Jersey provide state insurance on disability which covers mental health. You can find this information on the Department of Labor Web site of your state.

There are also employee assistance programs (EAPs), which can refer you to a counselling program or resources when you are on a short-term disability on mental health leave.

Key Takeaways

Yes, you can obtain short term disability due to a mental health condition provided you are covered and the documentation is correct.

The first step should be to examine your policy, which should be followed by the collection of comprehensive medical evidence.
Remain in contact with your employer and adhere to your treatment plan.

After a long day of preparation and professional assistance, you will be able to go through the process without any hesitation and concentrate on what is more important to you, that is your mental health.

Final Thoughts

The idea of applying to short term disability for mental health could be overwhelming but you do not have to do it by yourself. Get in touch with your doctor, HR or a close advisor. Your physical health is of equal significance as the mental and these benefits are there to see that you recuperate without the added burden of the lost income.

FAQ’s

1.What is the maximum duration of mental health on short-term disability?

The policies differ, though most of them provide the benefits during 3 to 6 months, and an extension can be offered by your provider in case of further leave.

2.Will my employer be aware of my precise diagnosis?

Usually, functional restrictions are received, but not your complete medical history, by the HR. The HIPAA protects your privacy.

3.What if my claim is denied?

You can appeal. Give more medical proof or an in-depth letter by your provider stating the reason as to why you are not able to work.

How to Qualify for Short Term Disability for Mental Health Issues in the USA?