Bipolar Disability: The Social Security Implications

When a person receives a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, disability is one of the first thing that comes to their minds.  When disability is discussed, the social security administration is usually where most people will turn to look for compensation to help them through their struggles.  The social security disability process is a long process and bipolar disorder claims are usually turned down the first time they are presented.  To stop this from happening make sure your doctor is on board and is backing you.

Take all the evidence you need and schedule an appointment with a social security representative.  If you do get turned down the first time, you may be able to get the case reviewed through an appeal.  If you want to circumvent this process and maybe a second refusal, you can hire a lawyer who can arrange a review by a court hearing.  This short cut could still take several years.

Problems In The Workplace

When you go to either hearing you might want to take witnesses that can attest to your inability to work or get along in the workplace.  Bipolar disorder sufferers have a hard time with interpersonal relationships because of their change in mood and work ethic.

On the upside of the bipolar cycle the worker maybe to overactive for the job setting.  They will start several tasks and never get them all done.  If they are done, they are usually done not up to specs which could cause torn relationships with managers or other employees.  On the downside of the cycle, the work might never get done or done haphazardly.  If you have any evidence about these things or people who can vouch for your poor job performance, it will help in the long run.

Effects On The Family

If your bipolar disorder has caused a rift in the relationship of a significant other, talk to them and tell them what you are trying to do.  Have them write a letter that will tell the judge that your rants and crying was to much to deal with. Have him or her tell the judge that if someone who loves you cannot stand to be around you because of the disorder, they can imagine what working with you would be like.

Have family members explain their experiences with you and what bipolar disorder has done to their quality of life.  It sounds like you are trying to scam the judge, but most people are not knowledgeable about what the disorder is let alone what the disorder does to you and other people in the workplace.

Remember that bipolar is a disability and if it takes away your ability to work.  You have paid your social security and you deserve the benefits that you have put into the system.  If you are a veteran you might even get benefits from the veteran's administration or a least have a representative of the veteran's administration write a letter describing your situation. The more ammo you have, the more time you will shave off the process. Remember though, if you use a lawyer, they may want a percentage of your monthly check or a huge upfront payment to help you out.