Many Canadians silently struggle with anxiety disorder and wonder: is anxiety a disability in Canada? The answer is that yes, if the condition is severe enough, anxiety may be considered a disability eligible for disability benefits.

If you’re unable to work due to severe anxiety, you may be eligible for disability benefits through your employer-based or private long term disability plan. This guide will help you understand if your anxiety disorder qualifies, how to apply, and what to do if your disability claim is denied.

What is an Invisible Disability?

Invisible disabilities are conditions that can’t be confirmed with a blood test, scan, or physical exam. These include chronic pain, depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and some back injuries. Insurance companies often use the “invisible” nature of these illnesses to deny disability claims, arguing that the lack of “objective” proof makes them hard to validate. But invisible doesn’t mean imaginary—these conditions can be just as disabling as any physical injury.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is more than just feeling nervous before a big event. For some, it’s a persistent, overwhelming sense of fear, dread, or panic that interferes with daily life. When these feelings become so severe that you can’t function at work or at home, anxiety becomes a real health issue—one that can qualify as a disability under many long term disability benefits plans.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

There are several types of anxiety disorders recognized by health professionals:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Constant, excessive worry not tied to any specific event, lasting at least six months.

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Repetitive thoughts or rituals performed in an attempt to control anxiety.

• Panic Disorder: Sudden, intense attacks of fear or terror, often with no clear cause.

• Phobias: Overwhelming, irrational fears of common things, places, or situations.

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Ongoing severe stress after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety symptoms can be physical, emotional, and cognitive. Common signs include:

• Racing heart, sweating, or trembling

• Trouble breathing or chest pain

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Sleep problems (insomnia or nightmares)

• Feeling restless, on edge, or easily fatigued

• Irritability or unexplained anger

• Avoiding people, places, or tasks that trigger anxiety

If these symptoms are severe and ongoing, they can make it impossible to work or perform daily activities, supporting your case for anxiety disability benefits.

Is Anxiety a Long Term Disability in Canada?

Yes—anxiety is a disability and can qualify for long term disability benefits under most employer or private insurance plans, as long as your doctor supports that it is preventing you from being able to work. However, because anxiety disorder is an invisible disability, it’s often met with skepticism by insurance companies. They may argue that the medical evidence is “subjective” or insufficient, since it relies on your reported symptoms rather than lab results or scans.

But times are changing. According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada ← make nofollow and open new window, mental illness affects one in five Canadians and costs the economy $50 billion each year. The shift from physical to mental work in many jobs means more Canadians are experiencing anxiety disorders and other invisible disabilities.

If you’re struggling, applying for long term disability benefits can give you the time and support you need to recover. Don’t let the insurance company’s doubts stop you from making a disability claim—that’s what these benefits are for.

Brook’s Story: Denied for Anxiety Disability Benefits

Brook (they/them), in their mid-30s and living in Ontario, had always been a dedicated worker. But after a traumatic event, their anxiety disorder became overwhelming. Brook experienced daily panic attacks, trouble sleeping, and couldn’t focus at work despite ongoing therapy and medication.

With their doctor and therapist’s support, Brook applied for long term disability benefits through their employer’s plan. But the insurance company denied the claim, saying there wasn’t enough “objective” medical evidence. Brook felt defeated and worried about their future.

Brook reached out to a disability lawyer at Share Lawyers. With legal help, Brook gathered stronger documentation from their care team and appealed the decision. Their lawyer explained that many claims for anxiety disability benefits are denied at first, but with the right support, there’s a good chance of success. Share Lawyers took over all communication with the insurance company and won Brook the benefits they needed to take the time to get back on track with their mental health.

What Insurance Companies Look For

• A clear diagnosis of anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, OCD, or PTSD

• Ongoing treatment with a doctor or mental health professional

• Detailed medical evidence: notes, treatment plans, and reports showing how your symptoms affect your ability to work

How to Apply for Anxiety Disability Benefits in Canada

Applying for anxiety disability benefits can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Talk to Your Doctor: Get a clear diagnosis and ongoing treatment plan.

2. Gather Medical Evidence: Collect records, doctor’s notes, and any assessments or test results.

3. Review Your Policy: Understand your employer or private insurance plan—what’s covered, waiting periods, and definitions of disability.

4. Complete the Application: Fill out all forms honestly and thoroughly. Include detailed descriptions of how your anxiety disorder affects your work.

5. Submit Supporting Documents: Attach all medical evidence and any workplace correspondence.

6. Stay in Touch: Keep copies of everything and follow up with the insurance company.

7. Get Legal Help if Denied: If your long term disability claim is denied, contact a disability lawyer who specializes in anxiety disability benefits.

For more tips, watch our video on getting approved for mental health disability benefits.

Summary

• Yes, anxiety can qualify as a disability for employer-based or private long term disability benefits in Canada if your doctor supports that you cannot continue to work.

• Medical evidence and ongoing treatment are key to a successful disability claim.

• Many claims are denied at first, but with the right support, you can appeal and win.

• Don’t let stigma or fear stop you from getting the help you deserve.

For more information, see our articles on How to Apply and What to Expect From a Disability Lawyer.