Bipolar Disorder Social Security Disability Attorneys

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging and can limit a person’s ability to live a carefree life. In some situations, symptoms from bipolar disorder can be so severe that it can prevent a person from being able to perform day-to-day activities, such as working. If you have bipolar disorder and cannot work as a result, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. Contact a Social Security Disability attorney at Hankey Marks & Crider today to find out.

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness; however, there are resources to help alleviate symptoms and to help a person with bipolar disorder live a normal life. These resources include medical treatment, therapy, and government aid.

If you have bipolar disorder and cannot work, you may be eligible to receive disability income through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Contact Hankey Marks & Crider to review your eligibility for disability income, apply for Social Security benefits, or appeal your case if you were denied Social Security benefits. Contact us online or call us now at (317) 634-8565 for a free consultation. Our Indianapolis Social Security Disability attorneys are ready to speak with you. We are available 24/7.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) defines bipolar disorder as a mental disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.

As noted in the definition itself, bipolar disorder can make it hard for someone to perform day-to-day activities. Unfortunately, this can mean that it can also be hard to perform the duties required for employment. It is common for people with bipolar disorder to lose their jobs and, thus, both current and future potential income.

Bipolar disorder episodes involve a range of moods. Manic episodes, also known as “up” episodes, involve irritable and energized behavior. Depressive episodes, also known as “down” episodes, involve sad and hopeless behavior. Hypomanic episodes are less severe manic episodes.

What are the Types of Bipolar Disorder?

There are three types of bipolar disorder. Whatever type of bipolar disorder you have, you may be eligible for disability income through the SSA. We recommend hiring a lawyer to review your eligibility and to recommend the best course of action to take.

NIMH describes the three types of bipolar disorder below:

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder is defined by manic episodes that last at least seven days or by manic symptoms that are so severe that a person needs hospital care immediately. Depressive episodes can occur as well, usually up to two weeks. It is possible for manic symptoms and depressive symptoms to happen at the same time.

Bipolar II Disorder

Bipolar II Disorder involves at least one severe depressive episode and one hypomanic episode. It does not involve a manic episode.

Cyclothymic Disorder (also called Cyclothymia)

Cyclothymic Disorder is defined by depressive symptoms and hypomanic symptoms that last for at least two years in adults, one year for children and teenagers.

What are Complications of Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder can create many complications, which can take a significant toll on a person’s life. For example, people with bipolar disorder have an increased risk of thyroid disease, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, migraines, and other physical illnesses.

NIMH lists the following conditions that are common with bipolar disorder:

Psychosis

Depending on the severity of bipolar episodes, a person can experience psychotic symptoms. These symptoms may include hallucinations or delusions.

Anxiety

Oftentimes, people with bipolar disorder also have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders can include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Phobia-related disorders.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

It is common for people with bipolar disorder to also have ADHD. Symptoms of ADHD include not being able to focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Substance Abuse

People with bipolar disorder oftentimes misuse alcohol or drugs. Misuse of drugs and alcohol is most common during manic episodes.

Eating Disorders

In some cases, people with bipolar disorder also suffer from an eating disorder, such as bulimia or binge eating.

Am I Eligible for Social Security Disability Income?

It depends on the severity of your symptoms and the amount you have paid into Social Security taxes. If you have a long history of work and have paid into Social Security taxes, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). If you are an individual with low income and limited resources, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). An experienced lawyer, such as the ones on our team, will be able to help you determine your eligibility.

Remember, it is not your duty to have a clear understanding of government bureaucracies, such as the SSA. Most people don’t. However, the Indianapolis Social Security Disability lawyers at Hankey Marks & Crider do have an understanding of the SSA, and we are here to help. We will gladly answer any of your questions and review your eligibility. Our lawyers are also able to help you apply for Social Security benefits, as well as appeal your case if you were denied benefits.

How Can Hankey Marks & Crider Help You?

At Hankey Marks & Crider, our attorneys have 75 years of combined legal experience, and we pride ourselves on the successes that we have had for our clients. Our clients are our first priority. We understand that just thinking about disability income can be stressful, and we want to be the legal team that takes that burden off your shoulders. Hire us to work on your behalf, and we will do all the tedious and time-consuming work for you. We are trained and experienced at compiling thorough paperwork and meeting deadlines.

We are passionate about helping people, and we would like to help you obtain disability income through the SSA. Contact Hankey Marks & Crider now to speak to one of our attorneys for a free consultation. Contact us online or call us at (317) 634-8565. We are available 24/7. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can get to work for you.