Bipolar I & SSDI - Anyone Out There Been Approved??? HELP!!

teebee · February 22, 2006, 2:20am

Hello, I'm new here and was wondering if anyone out there who has Bipolar I been approved by SSA for disability?? If so, could you give me some info? I'm in the process of applying for SSDI and need assistance.

Thanks for any comments or suggestions,

FredsChik

ShynSassy · February 22, 2006, 3:59am

Hi I posted this in "depression" for you also.
My son was approved for SSDI for Bipolar. he is 15. So.Yes, you can get SSDI for bipolar disorder. It is a long, difficult process that takes months or even years.(It took us 2 years ) You usually get denied the first time and then have to proceed to a hearing. It always helps to retain an attorney and to have a psychiatrist knowledgeable in these proceedings to fill out the necessary paperwork. Getting SSDI is not a walk in the park, but it is possible.Also SS will also pay up to $4000 (I think) in legal fees
Also key is your dr and his/her willingness to answer promptly inquiries and responding in writing to SS required reviews. This is very important.
Hope this helps. And I think most of the people in this part of the forum will have better info on this than I as I am not dealing with bipolar myself,just know from my son and his struggles.

Good Luck to you

shynsassy@healingwell.net

Chronic Depression, Panic Attacks,Anxiety Attacks,Anorexia

teebee · February 23, 2006, 12:10am

Thanks ShynSassy!! I got it and appreciate you!

Bless you!!

FredsChik

info4tkt · March 12, 2006, 9:20pm

I am BP and suffer from dementia and chronic pain from major car accident 5 yrs ago. I was diagnosed Bp in June 2005 applied for ssdi oct 2005 and was approved by Feb 1 2006 and got back pay as well. I did not have a lawyer and everyone asked how I did it. My answer

Take every Dr's note ever written. EVERY piece of evidence you have. Every report from your job in your decline in salary or productivity. YOU HAVE to PROVE that you can not function in ANY job you have done in the past YOU HAVE TO PROVE you can do it now nor can in the future. I had as BOOK

6 inches thick of every medical record possible. Letters from my DR's, employers, friend and family members.

It worked for me and good luck to you.