Social Security Disability and Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorders can be a very serious and disabling mental disorder.

Emmett, in Los Angeles, CA, asks “Will I be able to qualify for Social Security Disability if I have Bipolar Disorder?”

Bipolar Disorders can be a very serious and disabling mental disorder. It is recognized in section 12 of the Social Security Administration’s List if Impairments. Section 12.04 is titled “Affective Disorders” and lists bipolar syndrome as a qualifying impairment.

Within section 12.04, it says:

“Bipolar syndrome with a history of episodic periods manifested by the full symptomatic picture of both manic and depressive syndromes (and currently characterized by either or both syndromes);”

In addition to having Bipolar disorder, as described above, the claimant’s disorder must result in 2 of the following: (also found in section 12.04 of the Listing of Impairments)
Marked restriction of activities of daily living; or
Marked difficulties in maintaining social functioning; or
Marked difficulties in maintaining concentration, persistence, or pace; or
Repeated episodes of decompensation, each of extended duration;

Also, like all disabilities that are recognized for Social Security Disability, the impairment must be expected to last at lease 12 months or result in death. If you suffer from Bipolar Disorder to the extent that you show symptoms of manic and depressive syndromes, then you might qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Many mental disorders, like bipolar syndrome, often have symptoms that are constantly changing.

The severity of the symptoms changes often as does an individual’s Residual Functional Capacity (RFC). This can make it difficult for Disability Determination Services (DDS) to approve your application. Your medical records need to be very detailed and need to address manic and depressive syndromes that you might have. DDS must be convinced by your medical records that your impairment will prevent you from working for at least 1 year.

If you have recently been denied Social Security Disability, don’t give up. Talk to a qualified disability attorney today. Many disability cases involving mental disorders are denied by the DDS but can be won in a judicial hearing appeal. Click here to schedule a free consultation with an attorney in the Southern California area (San Diego, Los Angeles, Riverside, etc…).