Mental health disorders can be life-long or short term conditions which can vary in severity of the symptoms caused. Arranging life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection is usually possible, unless there have been any recent thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It can also be difficult to arrange cover for someone with recent or current symptoms of certain conditions such as bipolar, schizophrenia or psychosis.
Someone with a common mental health disorder, such as depression or anxiety, can usually find a life insurance or critical illness policy on standard rates, if the condition was relatively mild. This would usually still be the case even if you are currently taking anti-depressant medication. If you are still experiencing symptoms of depression then there may be an increase in the premium.
If you have been treated by a psychiatrist for obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, had in-patient hospital treatment or had any thoughts of self-harm then insurers will usually require a report from your doctor. This will provide the underwriters with the information they require in order to make a full assessment of the application. Depending on the severity and the types of treatment prescribed, the premiums could be increased or certain conditions excluded.