Keep reading to explore who’s eligible and how to make the most of what’s offered to you.
Your Rights Under the ADA
Many people with bipolar disorder are able to maintain a job.
Bipolar disorder is one of the many conditions covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
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The ADA only applies to businesses with 15 or more employees.
People with bipolar disorder may want to consider that when looking for employment or considering changing jobs.
The ADA also protects your spouse.
The ADA is administered by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Other employees may not understand the rights a person with bipolar disorder has under the ADA.
Often, people think of disability only as a physical impairment.
Everyone should learn how the law applies so they know why accommodations may be required.
This means providing one or more “reasonable accommodations” to the disabled employee.
The limited or impaired major life activity can be one that occurs on or off the job.
You must still be able to perform the duties of the job.
An example given by the EEOC was of a person whose medications caused dry mouth.
It was reasonable to allow this man to have a beverage at his desk once an hour.
you’re able to do this online or request an utility from your nearest EEOC office.
The Social Security Administration has adetailed listof impairments that qualify an individual for disability.
Section 12 is specific to mental disorders; Section 12.04 addresses depressive, bipolar, and related disorders.
Medical documentation of the requirements of paragraph 1 or 2:
AND
B.
If you decide to hire an attorney, be sure to talk to him/her about those rules.
Social Security will not always award disability benefits to people with serious mental health issues.
In many cases, the initial applications are rejected.
Seek help in filing if neededyour doctor or support groups may recommend useful resources.
What If I Don’t Qualify for Disabilty Benefits?
It is not uncommon for disability requests to be turned down.
Requesting Accommodations
You’ll most likely receive accommodations only if you ask for them.
Your employer is not legally obligated to initiate the process or offer one.
When asking, you don’t have to disclose your condition.
Such a statement legally obligates your employer to begin considering your request.
They may also be able to help point you to resources if you run into any trouble.
If you have bipolar disorder, you may qualify for accommodations in the workplace.
If you cannot work due to your condition, you may qualify for Social Security insurance benefits.
2013;25(4):277-292. doi:10.1007/s10672-013-9221-2
U.S.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.The ADA: Your Responsibilities as an Employer.
Americans with Disabilities National internet.
Southwest Ada Center.The ADA National connection Disability Law Handbook.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.Enforcement Guidance on the ADA and Psychiatric Disabilities.
Social Security Administration.Annual Statistical Report on the Social Security Disability Insurance Program, 2022.
Social Security Administration.Disability evaluation under social security: 12.00 Mental disorders - Adult.
Social Security Administration.Disability Benefits | Appeal A Decision.
