Bipolar disorder can affect more than your mood. Changes in energy, sleep, concentration and behavior may make it hard to keep a regular work schedule or handle everyday job tasks. When these symptoms interfere with your ability to maintain employment, they may also become relevant to a Social Security Disability claim.
How does the SSA evaluate bipolar disorder’s effect on work?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at four areas of mental functioning: how well a person learns and uses information, interacts with others, stays focused and keeps up with tasks and manages emotions and behavior. These limitations may make it difficult to:
- Stay focused and complete tasks on time
- Keep regular attendance and show up on time
- Adapt to changes in workplace routines or demands
- Interact appropriately with coworkers and supervisors
When symptoms come and go, their frequency and duration can also matter. So can their effect on a person’s ability to function consistently.
Does part-time work or symptom improvement disqualify a claim?
Not necessarily. A period of improvement does not necessarily mean a person can sustain full-time work. If a person’s condition does not meet the requirements of a disability listing, SSA can still assess the person’s residual functional capacity (RFC). RFC looks at the work-related activities the person can still perform despite symptoms and limitations. SSA then uses that assessment to determine whether any jobs exist that the person could perform.
What evidence can support a bipolar disorder disability claim?
A diagnosis alone does not establish that a person is unable to work. Treatment records and observations from medical providers can help show how symptoms affect a person’s ability to work over time.
Details about missed work, difficulty completing tasks and problems interacting with others may also help document those limitations. Periods when symptoms made it difficult to remain employed may also be relevant.
Symptoms may be unpredictable or recurring. Documenting how they affect a person’s daily functioning and work history over time can provide important evidence for a disability claim.
