How to Secure Short Term Disability for Mental Health

Roughly 23% of Americans are affected by mental illness, which is why many wonder how to get short term disability for mental health. Taking a much-needed break isn’t just good for your mind and body. Your mental health can also play a huge role in how efficient you are in the workplace. Therefore, it’s beneficial for both you and your company to understand the nuances around short term disability.

If you are currently experiencing mental health issues, then it is important to know what you are entitled to in terms of disability. To give you an idea of what to expect, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this benefit.

What Is Short Term Disability?

Generally speaking, short term disability is a benefit that gives you financial compensation if you are unable to work. For most people, short term disability kicks in for illness or injury, but it can also apply to those with mental health issues as well.

If you have a mental health condition that prevents you from doing your work, you may qualify for short term mental health disability. Having this security allows people to focus on their treatment and recovery without worrying about work or income.

However, the specifics of your short term disability coverage depend on multiple factors, including your employer’s coverage and your specific diagnosis. Short term disability is longer than sick leave, but shorter than long term disability. Generally, this is anywhere from a couple of weeks to a few months.

Not only does short term disability provide income compensation, but it also protects your job. Therefore, your employer cannot fire due to absence.

What Are the Different Types of Mental Illness?

Mental health and wellness can mean a lot of things to a lot of different people. In the workplace setting, it can be anything that prohibits you from doing your job to the full ability. Some symptoms could be a lack of motivation, intrusive thoughts, or trouble with organization.

However, these symptoms are usually the result of a larger issue. Clinically speaking, mental illness usually encompasses one of the following:

• Depression
• Anxiety and Panic Attacks
• Eating Disorders
• Substance Abuse
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorders
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders

The above issues can and should only be diagnosed by a mental health professional. And while it can be intimidating to speak to a psychiatrist, counselor, or psychologist, there’s absolutely no shame in seeking help. Dealing with things in life can be stressful and getting diagnosed is the first step toward recovery. For most insurance policies, an official diagnosis is also required by a professional in order to claim short term disability.

Is Short Term Disability for Mental Health Covered by Insurance?

As we mentioned earlier, this answer depends largely on your employer. Some may or may not include coverage short term disability for mental health issues.

It’s also important to note that the type of coverage that is offered by your employer will vary depending on their policy as well. Every company has a different insurance provider, level of coverage, and benefit package. If your company does offer this protection, the amount of compensation and the length of time off can also vary depending on your condition.

My Company Covers Me: Now What?

Navigating the process of applying for short term disability can be challenging. But if your company offers this benefit, then it’s worth taking the time and effort to make sure you get the most out of it.

Here is a step-by-step process on how to claim short term disability for mental health issues:

1. Review the insurance policy: Most insurance companies have a detailed description of what is offered as a benefit. Read the fine print thoroughly to understand what you are and are not entitled to. Take note of the waiting periods, benefit duration, income amount, or any other requirements needed to file a claim. If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask your HR department or insurance representative.
2. Get medical certification: In most cases, you will be required to submit proof of your mental health issue to the insurance company. This means getting a signature or official diagnoses from a doctor or medical professional. Again, take a look at what is required by your insurance company to make sure you have all the necessary documentation.
3. Inform your employer: The next step is to notify your employer of your leave of absence. They may have a separate process they need to go through to ensure everything is ready on their end. This means telling your boss as well as your HR representative or department.
4. File the claim: In order to start receiving your disability benefit, you will need to file your claim with the insurance provider. The exact details of how this is done will depend on your policy. If you have further questions, call your insurance provider or log into your insurance portal for assistance.
5. Receive money: Once you have submitted your claim, all you have to do is sit back and work on your mental wellbeing! Depending on your condition and the policy, you may start receiving benefits within the next few weeks.
6. Be consistent with updates: Although you may have a break from work, that doesn’t mean you should go completely MIA. It’s important that you stay in contact with your employer (and with the insurance provider) throughout this entire process.

Even if your company doesn’t offer short term disability for mental health, its still important to prioritize self-care. There are still many things you can do in your own spare time to work on your health. Starting an exercise regime, getting enough sleep, and following a nutritious diet are small steps you can take.