Mental Illness

At least 75% of all long term disability claims made in Canada are as a result of a mental health illness; that number has been on the rise in recent years. Depression is the most common illness claimed. 70% of people who suffer from depression have to take time off work. Employees suffering from depression, especially those who are not getting the help they need, often require numerous days off of work.

A study conducted by the World Health Organization predicts that by the year 2020, depression will be the second leading cause of disability in the world, after heart disease.

Women are twice as likely to experience depression. Symptoms of depression include a lack of motivation, loss of ability to enjoy activities previously enjoyed, difficulty concentrating and feelings of isolation.

Barriers to receiving LTD claims

Whether you privately pay for your disability insurance, or whether your employer pays for you, there are certain requirements that must be met before the claim is approved.

Pre-existing conditions

Where an individual privately pays for her own insurance, she will have to answer a number of extensive and in-depth questions regarding her health history. However, where an employer funds the LTD benefit, the insurer does not have the opportunity to ask these questions. As a result, insurance companies will include the ‘pre-existing exclusion’ clause. Theses clauses will typically bar the employee from making a claim based on a condition with which they suffered in their past. Those who suffer with mental health issues often suffered episodes in their past and will likely suffer them in their future; although, it doesn’t necessarily mean it will be disabling or prevent her from working.

Depending on the policy, a claim arising from depression will likely be denied if the client had received treatment within a certain time period prior to the present claim. It is important to be honest and forthcoming when applying; the insurance company will review your health records to confirm the truth of the information you have supplied. Not being truthful can result in a denial of future claims if, and when, the information comes to light.

Our disability benefit lawyers represent clients throughout Toronto, Mississauga, North York, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Barrie, North Bay, Sudbury and the province of Ontario. We offer no charge consultations and no fees are collected until we have won your case. We are available to meet at one of our offices, at your home or hospital room. Our personal injury lawyers have the experience, knowledge and dedication that can make all the difference in your mental illness disability insurance claim.