I know from handling these cases that there are a few things that make a disability claim for Bipolar Disorder difficult.
If you have any questions
e-mail me. Those with the condition can experience great highs and lows in there mood. This can be a problem because often
times when the individual is in a "high" state they can be quite productive and even overly confident. When
a person is in this state they may have a surface appearance of being able to work on a full time basis. Those making
the determination at SSA may mistake this "high" behavior and find the individual capable of work. Another
problem in these cases is that people with this condition often have very sporadic work records. This can cause work
quarter issues for eligibility. I also find that individuals suffering from this condition tend to work sporadically
as the case is going on leading SSA to believe they can work. Another potential problem is many people when in a manic
episode will deny they have a problem. It is also common for those with this condition to abuse drugs or alcohol and
Social Security may determine that this is the problem and deny SSDI or SSI benefits.
There are many possible symptoms
from Bipolar Disorder that can affect ones ability to work. In a manic episode the individual may experience over confidence,
racing thoughts, increased energy, irritability, sleeplessness, inability to concentrate, denial of condition, drug abuse,
bad judgement, euphoria, or aggressive behavior. In a depressive episode symptoms may include hopelessness, suicide
thoughts, sleep difficulties, helplessness, guilt, difficulty with memory, difficulty with concentration, irritability, physical
symptoms of pain, overly sad, weight gain or loss, and decreased energy. the treatment for the condition is usually
medication and therapy. There are different degrees of this illness and many people under proper treatment can function
quit well while others even under proper treatment may have a difficult time even doing day to day things.
So how
do you give yourself the best chance to win your case for Social Security Disability for Bipolar Disorder? Make
sure you have all your medical records in to SSA. This should include all hospital visits, treating doctor notes, and
an RFC from your treating psychiatrist. If you abuse drugs and alcohol the RFC filled out by your doctor should
be the limitations you have from bipolar disorder absent the drugs or alcohol and there should be a statement saying
so on the RFC. To understand
how Social Security determines if you are disabled make sure to read the rest of this site.
