Mental disorders: depression (minor or major)

Feelings of sadness, unhappiness, worthlessness and guilt, excessive fatigue, apathy, loss of confidence, poor concentration, loss of interest or happiness, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite and weight gain or loss. Suicidal thoughts are also sometimes a symptom. The intensity and duration of the symptoms help determine the severity of the depression.

Things to consider

  • Current age
  • Severity
  • Medication and dosage
  • Response to medication
  • Length of time on disability
  • Recurrence
  • Stability
  • Hospital stays
  • Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempt
  • Occupation
  • Habits (drugs, alcohol)
  • Environment

What response can you expect?

1 episode

If currently on disability:declined, possible reconsideration after 6 to 12 months
Best cases: generally standard
Within 1 year of the episode:depending on severity: standard or declined
More than 1 year since the episode:standard or rated +50

Reccuring episodes

Best cases: generally standard
Within 1 year of the episode:depending on severity: standard or declined
More than 1 year since the episode:standard or rated +50 to +100