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Depression isn鈥檛 just a sad mood 鈥� it鈥檚 a severe clinical condition that can lead to serious problems in functioning for those who suffer from it. The symptoms of major clinical depression can make it difficult to carry out your day-to-day activities, including working.

Many people afflicted with bipolar disorder find themselves struggling to carry out their daily activities. The fluctuating symptoms may lead to serious complications in functioning and problems with personal relationships 鈥� making it difficult to hold down a job. Even with proper treatment, bipolar disorder can be problematic to manage.

鈥淒r. X鈥� was a successful Dentist in Westchester County suffering from major depression, anxiety, and associated symptoms.  She applied for benefits and the insurance company granted them under the policy, subject to the two year mental illness limitation in the policy. 

While out on disability, Dr. X subsequently sustained physical injuries to her right shoulder when she fell walking down a flight of stairs.  These injuries, independent of her depression and anxiety, precluded her from performing routine dental procedures with her dominant arm. 

Dr. X promptly notified the insurance company regarding her physical injuries and submitted medical evidence substantiating her physical restrictions and limitations of her dominant upper extremity.  The insurance company, however, discontinued Dr. X鈥檚 benefits by invoking the 24-month Mental Illness Limitation, despite the new physical injuries suffered by Dr. X.

Your long term disability policy may limit your period of eligibility if your disability results from a psychiatric condition.  This is commonly referred to as a Mental Illness Limitation.  Notably, the limitation may affect you even if you are not disabled due to a psychiatric condition.

More and more people are investigating long term disability coverage these days and with good reason; a study conducted by the Council for Disability Awareness, reports that one out of four 20 year olds will have a long term disability before they reach 65 years of age. Moreover, the average time they will be out of work is over two years. Long term disability insurance is typically offered through employers, but individuals can also buy it on their own.