When we think of total permanent disability, mental illness does not always come to mind. Yet just as physical diseases and injuries can impair your ability to hold down a job, so too can psychological disorders. As the number of individuals diagnosed with mental illnesses in Australia continues to rise, so does the amount of total and permanent disability claims made on the grounds of depression, anxiety and other diagnosed mood disorders.
According to an article recently published by NewsGP, new data compiled by the Financial Services Council (FSC) and KPMG Australia around the underlying causes of claims for total and permanent disability (TPD) reflects this rise, they found that mental health conditions are the basis for the majority of claims, at 24.1%.
This is one of the reasons why it’s important to talk about the support that is available for those suffering from mental illness, and what may or may not make them eligible for total and permanent disability insurance.
Can I make a total permanent disability (TPD) claim on the grounds of mental illness?
It is not always easy to make a total permanent disability (TPD) claim on the grounds of mental illness, but it is worth the effort, and Life Matters Claims is here so you don’t have to go through the process alone.
If you are undergoing regular treatment with an Australian healthcare professional, and following a detailed treatment plan, this will also help you to receive a positive TPD claim outcome.
What mental health conditions may be covered by total permanent disability (TPD) insurance?
As with physical illnesses and injuries, many different mental health conditions may be covered under the specific total permanent disability (TPD) insurance offered by your superannuation fund. These conditions may include, but are not limited to:
- depression
- post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- severe anxiety.
What will my insurer take into account when I make a total permanent disability (TPD) claim for mental illness?
Making a total permanent disability claim on the grounds of mental illness in Australia can be a challenge. Often, the sporadic nature of symptomology can make it hard to reach a clear diagnosis to support your claim, but it is possible to gather what you need when you have the support from the right people.
When you make your TPD claim, your insurer will consider a few things, including but not limited to:
- Whether or not you are in the care of a healthcare professional who supports your claim.
- The type of treatment that has been prescribed by your healthcare professional and the regularity of your treatment.
- Whether or not the mental health condition you have been diagnosed with is permanent.
- The degree to which you may be able to perform your duties at your current workplace with some well-considered adjustments to your routine, or in a new role at another workplace.
How can Life Matters Claims support me in making my total permanent disability (TPD) claim?
Making a TPD claim on the grounds of being diagnosed with a mental disorder can be a drawn-out and lengthy process. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you gather all necessary documentation, such as existing medical reports, to ensure your case is strong and ready to go. At Life Matters Claims our role is simple, we help to remove the stress of managing your total permanent disability claim. We are advocates that manage your claim from start to finish and have a 100% success rate for all our clients’ claims to date.
Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help you with your TPD claim.