“Blew My Mind”: Autoimmune Conditions Capable of Producing Psychosis

Recent studies are shining a brighter light on the role that autoimmune disease plays in mental illness.

Neuropsychiatrist Thomas Pollak at King’s College London determined that autoimmune encephalitis, inflammation of the brain caused by an assault from the immune system, was capable of producing psychosis.

“[This revelation] kind of blew my mind,” Pollak told New Scientist.

While more research is needed, experts hope it’s possible that certain cases of apparent mental health conditions (i.e. post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, dementia, etc.) could be treated with drugs that target the immune system.

Germany is among the countries already using some immunomodulating drugs to combat autoimmune encephalitis.

Disability Benefits for Mental Illness in Canada

Mental illness can have a profound impact on an individual’s ability to perform their job duties — even with appropriate treatment.

For Canadians who can’t work, short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) benefits can provide a crucial financial lifeline.

How These Benefits Help

• STD: Provides temporary financial support for individuals unable to perform their job duties.
• LTD: Offers income replacement for individuals unable to return to work for an extended period of time.

To qualify for STD or LTD benefits, medical documentation is essential to demonstrate how your condition prevents you from working.

Sadly, insurance companies often deny legitimate LTD claims — including in cases involving mental illness — adding unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation.

SEE ALSO
• Medical Conditions that Qualify for Disability in Canada
• Denied LTD? Seek Legal Advice Before Appealing the Decision
• Pocket Disability Lawyer: Real-Time Insights on Your Rights
• Canada Post Worker Denied LTD During Cancer Battle

Disclaimer: The materials provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and DO NOT constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a legal representative at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.