Having postpartum depression1 (PPD) is already a hurdle new moms have to face. And it’s already too much having to look for support and treatment. Now, imagine doing it all while juggling disability benefits.
This article will help you understand how long can you get disability for postpartum depression. It’ll also teach you about your rights, inform you of the available resources, and guide you on how to make the process easier.
1. Postpartum Depression and Disability Benefits
What happens when a mom just gave birth but has mood swings2, anxiety3, and depression? This is known as postpartum depression (PPD), which is typical for mothers right after childbirth. However, symptoms may continue even after some time has passed after giving birth. A condition that can make handling daily tasks or taking care of her newborn difficult for a woman with PPD.
Remembering that this sickness is normal helps women avoid feelings of inadequacy while adjusting to parenthood. State and federal laws classify PPD as a disability if it dramatically interferes with the person’s ability to work or live their life.
This, in turn, means they have access to protections and accommodations that should help them deal with their condition more comfortably. At its core, acknowledging something as a disability means that society must do what it can so individuals don’t fall behind in life because of it.
If someone is disabled due to severe PDD, then they have access to financial assistance and accommodations, which will help alleviate them through the battles of PDD so they can go on to a better life one day. By providing access to these resources mentioned above, society will empower individuals with PD to seek treatment, recover, and thrive in their future roles as parents and community members.
2. How long are disability benefits given out?
People who are suffering from postpartum depression(PDD) usually want an answer on how long exactly they’re able to get disability benefits. The answer truly depends on numerous factors, which include state regulations, employer policies, and the severity of the condition.
In California, pregnant workers may be entitled to up to four months of pregnancy disability leave for conditions related to pregnancy, including postpartum depression. This leave is protected under federal law, such as the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and California Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL) regulations.
This period of leave allows individuals with PPD to take the time they need to address their mental health needs and focus on their well-being without fear of repercussions from their employer.
Additionally, individuals with PPD may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits if their condition is severe enough to prevent them from full-time gainful employment for at least 12 months.
How long these benefits last fall on various factors, including treatment plans, medical records, and the overall SSA assessment. It’s invaluable for PPD patients to collaborate with their health professionals and lawyers to make sense of these disability benefits.
3. Rights and Protections
With the disability rights and protections that many individuals don’t know they have, learning about them is imperative. Bosses inside California aren’t allowed to discriminate against employees with a PPD diagnosis. So, those people are entitled to be treated fairly at work without pressure or prejudice.
Companies have to help you when you’ve been diagnosed with postpartum depression. And that helps to boost your ability to do your job while managing PPD. Among the possible accommodations are flexible hours, time off for therapy appointments and changes to your job.
Privacy comes first, though. “Under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), an employer cannot ask about a diagnosis,” Shoffner said of employers in California. “A medical provider can write a note saying that you need accommodations without writing why.” Keep that in mind if you ever need it in the workplace.
4. Seeking Support and Assistance
It doesn’t matter who you are or what position you hold; navigating disability benefits is overwhelming! Know that you’re not alone because resources are specifically designed to help people through this tough time.
4.1 Legal assistance
If discrimination or wrongful termination related to PPD workers has been dealt with, law firms such as King & Siegel LLP will be helpful here. They’ve become experts at navigating employment law regarding disabilities like PPD… Their support throughout this process will be invaluable because they could be the difference between someone not knowing their rights and someone who can defend themselves properly!
4.2. Medical support
It’s important to get treated by professionals who know what they’re doing. They should be able to give you an assessment, a formal diagnosis, and recommendations for accommodations tailored to your situation… But most importantly, medical evidence is the most significant part of proving that you need disability benefits.
4.3 Community Resources
Of course, if you don’t feel like talking to a lawyer or doctor just yet, there are still community resources that provide emotional support for people with PPD! There are forums online where individuals are more than willing to hear your struggles and maybe even tell you how they dealt with them!
These groups aren’t here to give emotional support. They offer practical advice and strategies for coping with PPD, too. There are also organizations dedicated to mental health advocacy that can provide more resources and referrals to support services. These additional resources will help individuals access the most comprehensive support they need to navigate their journey with PPD.
You can also consider visiting a mental health retreat to find a supportive environment where you can engage with professionals who understand your challenges. Retreats often offer a holistic approach, combining therapeutic sessions, self-care activities, and a supportive community to promote emotional well-being. It can be a transformative experience that complements other forms of support in your journey with postpartum depression.
Closing Thoughts
Navigating disability benefits for postpartum depression requires understanding your rights, accessing available resources, and seeking support from professionals and peers… The duration of disability benefits for PPD may vary depending on various factors.
Still, individuals facing this challenge can take proactive steps to ensure they receive the support and assistance they need during this challenging time… Remember, you’re not alone, and help is available.
- Miller, Laura J. “Postpartum depression.” Jama 287.6 (2002): 762-765. ↩︎
- Richards, Ruth, and Dennis K. Kinney. “Mood swings and creativity.” Creativity research journal 3.3 (1990): 202-217. ↩︎
- Klein, Donald F. “Anxiety reconceptualized.” Anxiety: New research and changing concepts (1981): 235-263. ↩︎
Last Updated on by NamitaSoren