Bipolar Disorder: Social Security Disability Benefits

Do you suffer from bipolar disorder? The attorneys at our Pennsylvania law firm understand the emotional anguish and difficulties that often accompany bipolar disorder. That's why we're here to help you fight for all the Social Security disability benefits (SSD) that you deserve.

Bipolar affects different people in different ways. Some may quietly struggle through episodes of mania and depression, while others may find themselves completely unable to function when bipolar is at its worst.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Formerly known as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a mental illness that cycles between the highs of mania and lows of depression. The most common forms of bipolar disorder include:

Bipolar I

An individual with Bipolar I disorder will face manic or mixed episodes, but not necessarily a major depressive period. Psychosis may sometimes accompany the manic episodes of Bipolar I.

Bipolar II

Bipolar II involves hypomanic episodes along with at least one major depressive period. Typically, manic and mixed episodes do not exist with this disorder. The absence of mania often makes it difficult to diagnose Bipolar II.

Cyclothymia

Cyclothymia includes hypomanic episodes mixed with periods of depression that don't qualify as major depressive episodes.

Who is Eligible to Receive Disability Benefits for Bipolar Disorder?

To receive Social Security disability benefits, your condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in death. Disability Determination Services (DDS) will examine your medical history to see how your mental illness affects your ability to work and your day-to-day life.

Though bipolar disorder can be expected to last much longer than 12 months, the condition may limit your ability to build up work history. If you don't meet the work history requirements as laid out by the Social Security Administration (SSA), you may be eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead.

What are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder consists of two distinct conditions, mania and depression. A third condition, known as a mixed state, contains symptoms from both mania and depression.

Common symptoms related to manic episodes:

Common symptoms related to depressive episodes:

Seeking SSD Benefits for Bipolar Disorder? Our Attorneys Can Help

It doesn't matter if you're applying for SSD benefits for the first time or if you've already been denied the disability benefits that you need – our experienced Pennsylvania attorneys can help. After representing the residents of western Pennsylvania and beyond for nearly 30 years, we know the legal system and how to make it work for you.

Although three-quarters of all first-time SSD applicants are denied, you can't give up. Start fighting for the Social Security disability benefits that you deserve by taking advantage of our free legal evaluation today.