Bipolar disorder is a mental condition that causes individuals to experience unexpected shifts in energy, mood, levels of activity and the ability to successfully fulfill the tasks of daily living. This is also called manic-depression, and it can cause severe symptoms
Bipolar disorder is a mental condition that causes individuals to experience unexpected shifts in energy, mood, levels of activity and the ability to successfully fulfill the tasks of daily living. This is also called manic-depression, and it can cause severe symptoms. While everyone goes through ups and downs throughout their lives, they are experienced differently in those with bipolar disorder, which can lead to major complications in relationships, school and work performance and can lead to suicide if left untreated.
The two main diagnoses for this condition are:
- Bipolar I Disorder – defined by manic or mixed episodes that go on for at least seven days or manic symptoms so severe immediate hospitalization is necessary, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Depressive episodes typically occur and last for at least two weeks.
- Bipolar II Disorder – defined by a pattern of hypomanic and depressive symptoms, but there are no fully blown-up manic or mixed episodes.
Filing For Social Security Disability Benefits for Bipolar Disorder
Men and women suffering from either form of bipolar disorder could have trouble working in the same manner as healthy people, and they require increased medical attention and treatment, so they may consider applying for Social Security disability benefits for bipolar disorder.
When a person applies for Social Security disability benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will compare their condition to a list of conditions that meet the qualifications for Social Security disability in the Social Security Blue Book. This book also lists all necessary eligibility criteria. Bipolar disorder appears in Section 12.04, which focuses on affective disorders.
The SSA defines an affective disorder as a disturbance of mood along with full or partial manic and depressive symptoms. 