Physical illnesses are often easier to diagnose and more straightforward to establish during a claim for disability benefits. With a physical injury or disability, there may be external signs that clearly indicate why it may be difficult for you to work.
While mental conditions can be every bit as debilitating as a physical injury, they are not always as easy to prove. Depression can severely impair your ability to work.
The impacts of depression on productivity
It is a common misconception that depression is simply a minor period of sadness. Depression can also take a severe toll on your physical well-being. You may find yourself unable to concentrate at work, which could potentially place you and your colleagues in danger. In severe circumstances, you may simply not have the physical energy required in order to get to work in the first place. Ultimately, these symptoms may put you out of action for a while and it is important that you seek treatment and obtain the time off needed to recover.
Proving that depression has limited your ability to work
Severe depression is a medical emergency that requires treatment from your physician. Not only will they be able to offer you help, but they can outline for your employer how the illness affects your ability to work. By running the appropriate tests, doctors can provide you with the treatment you need as well as offer a timeline for your recovery.
Depression can be debilitating. If you need disability benefits and you’ve paid into an ERISA plan, you have a right to file — but the claim may be difficult. It often helps to have some experienced guidance along the way.