Bad boss? Toxic work environment? Is your mental health suffering? Let’s talk about your options. So can mental health qualify for short-term disability in Canada?
Most Canadians will come across a bad boss at least once throughout their career. It’s an unfortunate statistic but a reality that most people will experience or continue to experience.
A full-time job means you spend over 35+ hours at work. That’s a lot of time. If a boss or co-workers behaviour is negatively impacting your mental health and you’ve gotten to the point where you’re unable to continue working, consider applying for short term disability.
What is Short Term Disability?
Short term disability (“STD”) is an income replacement benefit offered by most employers as part of their group benefits policy. The benefit is intended to provide temporary income replacement if you are unable to do your job due to a medical illness or injury. The benefit can provide weekly income replacement for up to 26 weeks. Check your policy for your coverage particulars.
How to Apply for STD?
Making an STD application is simple. Three forms are required to get the application process started:
- Plan Member Statement. This is a form filled out by you (the applicant).
- Attending Physician Statement. This is a form filled out by your doctor which includes particulars of your medical condition and diagnoses.
- Plan Sponsor Statement. This is a form completed by your employer.
Once the forms have been submitted to the insurance provider, the insurance company will make a decision on your claim.
The Insurance Company Denied My Mental Health STD Claim
If your insurance company has denied your STD claim arising from a mental health diagnoses you have the option to appeal the decision or get a lawyer involved to help challenge the denial.
The insurance company may give you excuses for denying your claim. The insurer may try to justify the denial by advising:
- Your condition is exclusively a workplace issue and should be dealt with Human Resources.
- The medical documentation does not substantiate an inability to do your own job.
- You don’t meet the definition of disability as outlined in your policy.
Regardless of the reason, a lawyer can help you challenge the wrongful denial of your benefits. If your STD claim has been denied, contact the disability legal team at Whitten & Lublin. We offer free consultations for short and long term disability denials. Contact us online or call 416 640 2667.
FAQ’s
What is short-term disability (STD) insurance?
Short-term disability (STD) is an income replacement benefit provided by many employers as part of group benefits. It provides temporary income if illness or injury prevents you from performing your job, usually for up to 26 weeks.
Can mental health issues qualify for STD benefits?
Yes. Mental health conditions like stress, anxiety, depression, or burnout can be valid reasons for claiming short-term disability, as long as a licensed physician documents your inability to perform your work duties.
Why should I contact a lawyer if my STD claim is denied?
A lawyer can help:
- Review the insurance policy and denial
- Gather supporting medical evidence
- File an appeal or legal challenge to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to
