Is Short Term Disability Worth It For Severe Depression?
Statistics Canada’s Mental Health and Access to Care Survey (2022) shows that over 5 million Canadians experienced significant symptoms of mental illness, with a doubling of generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive episodes from 2012 to 2022, particularly among young women. A significant portion, about one in three, with mood, anxiety, or substance use disorders reported unmet mental health care needs in the 12 months prior to the survey. Statistics Canada also notes that mental health and substance use disorders are leading causes of disability in Canada.
If you are suffering from a disabling mental health condition, it may be time to consider applying for Short Term Disability (“STD”) Benefits.
What is Short Term Disability Coverage?
STD Benefits is an income replacement benefit intended to supplement your income if you become disabled from working your job due to a medical illness or injury. STD benefits are finite and can cover you from anywhere for 8 weeks to 26 weeks. Check your policy for your STD benefit particulars.
How Can I Claim STD Benefits?
Making an STD claim is simple. You’ll need to complete the application package and provide it to your insurance company. The first form in the application is the Plan Member Statement. This is a form filled out by you (the claimant) with information about your disability, the last date you worked along with details of your treatment practitioners. The second form is called the Attending Physician Statement which is to be completed by your doctor. The Attending Physician Statement is a signed form by your doctor which includes details of your primary and secondary diagnoses, any treatment you are undergoing and prognosis.
Your employer will fill out the third form, the Plan Sponsor Statement. Once all three forms have been completed and submitted, the insurance company will make a decision on your claim.
Does Depression (Or Other Mental Health Conditions) Qualify for STD Coverage?
Mental health conditions are legitimate conditions that may qualify for STD benefits. If you are suffering from depression and you and your doctor believe you are unable to work due to your condition you may qualify for STD benefit coverage. Severe depression or Major Depressive Disorder can significantly impact your day-to-day function including your ability to work. If you are suffering from depression and are struggling, seek aid in claiming STD.
If you are struggling with a mental health condition and are unsure what your options are, contact the disability legal team at Whitten & Lublin. We offer a free consultation for short and long term disability claims. Take control with us in your corner. Contact us online or call 416-640-2667.
Author – Aman Chaggar