Depression: Can It Qualify As Short-Term Disability?

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a feeling you can’t seem to shake? Depression can impact your life in profound ways, making it challenging to manage even everyday tasks. Discover how understanding short-term disability options can provide the support you need while you focus on healing and reclaiming your life.

Does Depression Qualify As A Short-Term Disability?

Depressive disorders are typically characterized by low mood, fatigue, lack of motivation, and trouble sleeping—symptoms that can be debilitating and significantly reduce a person’s ability to work and perform other daily functions.

Because of this, many people wonder whether depression qualifies as a disability, which may help them take the time needed to address their condition without financial hardship. Short-term disability insurance can provide support to those who miss work due to illness.

In this article, we’ll explore how depression might be covered under short-term disability insurance, potentially supporting many individuals in managing their symptoms effectively.

Depression is a serious mental health condition affecting approximately 280 million people worldwide.

What classifies as a disability?

Workers in the United States generally have access to several programs that provide aid when an injury or illness makes work difficult or impossible.

For instance, laws established in 1990 ensure that those with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as other Americans, effectively prohibiting discrimination against people living with disabilities in the workplace and other public spaces. Various types of illnesses and injuries can qualify as disabilities under different programs.

For short-term disability insurance, a disability is typically defined as a condition that causes an individual to miss work temporarily (and did not develop at work).

Depression is recognized as a disability by many private and government-run insurance programs and is considered one of the leading causes of disability globally. Depressive disorders can be debilitating, potentially making everyday activities like work more challenging. They can also vary in their causes, symptoms, and duration.

For example, someone may experience seasonal affective disorder that only impacts their mental health during winter months.

How depression can impair job performance

Research shows a close connection between the severity of depressive symptoms and decreased workplace productivity. Depression can lead to lack of energy, low mood, fatigue, physical pain, and other symptoms that make it difficult for employees to perform their duties. Individuals living with depression may struggle to maintain focus, communicate effectively with colleagues, or complete physical tasks.

Many people continue working despite a clinical depression diagnosis, often feeling they should avoid taking sick days because they don’t have a “physical” illness.

This can result in diminished job performance, functioning at a lower level, and potentially jeopardizing employment. Disability benefits can support employees working through mental health challenges without the pressure to continue working while significantly impaired.

Does depression qualify as a short-term disability?

Short-term disability insurance is generally a program offered by employers, personal insurance companies, and certain states in the US.

Unlike benefits provided under the ADA—such as continuing health insurance coverage and protection against termination—short-term disability is typically limited to financial payments to the individual.

Usually, an employee can obtain disability benefits under the ADA (or in some cases, the FMLA) while also receiving short-term disability payments.

It’s important to note that the temporary nature of short-term disability insurance means benefits are typically paid for up to two months, though the exact time period depends on the provider.

Treatment options for depression

Typically, depression can be treated with a combination of therapy and medication—though the exact treatment plan depends on the individual and their symptoms. There are also numerous self-help strategies that can alleviate symptoms and improve daily functioning.

Here are some strategies to consider with your licensed clinical social worker if you’re looking for treatment options:

Medication

Medication can provide significant relief and improve the outcome of psychotherapy. The most common types of prescribed antidepressants include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and beta blockers. We recommend consulting with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.

Therapy

Psychotherapy can help individuals living with depression learn more about their condition and address their symptoms. Many experts find it to be an effective treatment method, although combined therapy and medication are considered the most efficacious approach for many people.

Lifestyle changes

Healthy habits, such as avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, adopting a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can improve your mood. Additionally, practices like journaling, yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and aromatherapy have all been suggested to help decrease depression symptoms. Consider developing a self-care routine that incorporates these activities into your everyday life to support your overall functioning.

Utilize your support system

Depression can cause withdrawal and isolation, which may worsen symptoms. Consider reaching out to family and friends for support and sharing how you feel. Research suggests that surrounding yourself with a strong support network can be beneficial for your mental well-being.

How can telehealth therapy support those living with depression?

Online therapy through a platform like ReachLink can provide effective care tailored to your needs. With telehealth therapy, you can participate in sessions remotely, which can be especially helpful if depression is impacting your ability to leave home. Your licensed clinical social worker can connect you with useful resources to help you navigate depression in the workplace.

Additionally, a mental health professional can help you address depression symptoms that may be preventing you from being as productive as you’d like.

Is telehealth therapy effective for depression?

Online psychotherapy is considered by many to be a front-line treatment method for depression, and growing research suggests that telehealth therapy can be as effective as—and in many cases, more effective than—in-person counseling. For example, a meta-analysis of studies has indicated that online therapy can be comparatively effective when compared to face-to-face therapy.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a commonly utilized approach that can help individuals identify and replace negative thought patterns that may be leading to maladaptive behaviors and emotions—such as those related to depressive symptoms.

Takeaway

Depression can be debilitating, making daily functioning difficult. For those covered under certain plans, short-term disability insurance can provide financial support while navigating a depressive disorder. If you’re looking for support and guidance to manage depression symptoms, consider reaching out to a licensed clinical social worker through telehealth services. With the right help, you can take steps toward living a healthier, more productive life. ReachLink connects you with licensed clinical social workers who specialize in helping clients manage depression and other mental health conditions.