Can Grief Become a Disability?

The short answer is “yes.” Grief is a natural and powerful response to loss that can sometimes overwhelm us. And, few of us grieve in the same way. We might experience it emotionally, physically, or cognitively, but for most of us, grief becomes manageable over time, even if the pain doesn’t fully go away.

My own experiences with grief came into focus recently through my work with The Council for Disability Income Awareness. The unexpected passing last August of The CDIA Director, Carol Harnett, had a profound effect on everyone who knew her and worked with her. She was a tireless leader and passionate about her role.

For me, that loss triggered memories of past grief reaching back many years. The most difficult loss was the death of my husband and the unexpected financial setbacks that it brought on. There were some tough times when I felt overrun with emotions that I wasn’t sure would pass. But, with therapy and the understanding of wonderful friends and family, I overcame my emotional struggles. I feel fortunate.

However, for many people, grief can become so severe and prolonged that it becomes debilitating and may become classified as “prolonged grief disorder.” For many, this experience of grief makes social interactions difficult and affects their ability to work. It can be so disruptive that it could be classified as a form of temporary disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines mental impairment – such as complicated grief – as a disability if it substantially limits someone’s ability to work.

Short-term disability insurance may provide coverage for prolonged grief disorder (or any other mental health condition) depending on different factors. If you have disability insurance, be sure to review your policy for any limitations or requirements.

At the time of my husband’s death, I was able to work and was fortunate to have my therapy covered by insurance. However, back then, I didn’t have disability insurance which would have made my financial burdens significantly easier.

I wouldn’t be sharing this story except for my involvement with The CDIA. Our mission is to raise awareness of the importance of disability insurance for all working Americans. And now for me, it’s personal. My message is this: please take full advantage of all income protection programs offered by your employer and/or make sure you take out individual policies. There are many resources available and you can visit realitycheckup.info.

If you or someone you know is struggling with profound grief it’s important to seek support. Talk to your physician, family, or friend, or seek counseling through therapy or a support group.

Grief

Is like the ocean, it comes in waves,

Ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water

Is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming.

All we can do is learn to swim.

–Vicki Harrison

To learn more about income protection, visit RealityCheckup.info, which is part of a CDIA consumer outreach program to help working adults understand the importance of having alternate sources of income for times when they cannot work due to illness, injury, or pregnancy.

About Christi Doe

Christi Doe has written 4 posts in this blog.

Christi has her own small company called Conversations with Christi and brings more than 35 years of experience in the disability management and employee absenteeism space. She also works as a consultant for several nonprofit organizations in the disability industry. Personally, Christi is an artist who dabbles in watercolor and other mediums. She loves her family, including her two adorable grandchildren.