Sun Life Stress Leave: Short-Term Disability for Mental Health in Canada

If you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or burnout, you may be able to take stress leave through Sun Life short-term disability (STD).

But many employees aren’t sure:

• Does stress qualify for disability?
• What does Sun Life require?
• Why are mental health claims often denied?

This guide explains how Sun Life stress leave works, what you need to qualify, and what to do if your claim is denied.

What Is Stress Leave Under Sun Life?

“Stress leave” isn’t a formal legal term.

In most cases, it refers to a short-term disability claim based on a mental health condition, such as:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Burnout
• PTSD
• Adjustment disorders

Sun Life evaluates these claims the same way as any other disability claim — based on your functional ability to work, not just your diagnosis.

Does Sun Life Cover Stress Leave?

Yes — but only if your condition prevents you from working.

To qualify, you must show that your mental health condition:

• Significantly limits your ability to perform your job
• Is supported by medical evidence
• Requires time away from work for treatment or recovery

What Medical Evidence Do You Need?

This is where many stress leave claims succeed or fail.

Strong claims include:

• A clear diagnosis from a doctor or specialist
• Detailed symptoms (e.g., panic attacks, cognitive impairment, fatigue)
• Specific work limitations (e.g., inability to concentrate, handle stress, meet deadlines)
• A treatment plan (therapy, medication, etc.)

How to Apply for Sun Life Stress Leave

In most cases, the process involves:

• Submitting a short-term disability claim
• Completing employer and employee forms
• Providing medical documentation
• Waiting for approval and payment

Why Sun Life Stress Leave Claims Are Denied

Mental health claims are among the most commonly denied.

Common reasons include:

• Lack of detailed medical evidence
• Vague or unsupported symptoms
• Insufficient proof of functional limitations
• Disagreement about your ability to work

What Happens if Stress Leave Turns Into Long-Term Disability?

If your condition continues beyond the short-term period, you may qualify for long-term disability (LTD).

This requires:

• A new application
• Updated medical evidence
• Meeting a stricter definition of disability

Common Problems With Sun Life Stress Leave Claims

Many claimants report:

• Delays in approval
• Requests for repeated medical updates
• Pressure to return to work
• Benefits being cut off early

What to Do if Your Stress Leave Claim Is Denied

If your claim is denied, don’t assume the decision is final.

✔️ Review the Denial Reason

Understand exactly why your claim was rejected.

✔️ Strengthen Your Medical Evidence

Focus on functional limitations — not just your diagnosis.

✔️ Act Quickly

There may be time limits to challenge the decision.

When to Speak to a Disability Lawyer

You should consider legal advice if:

• Your stress leave claim is denied
• Your benefits are cut off
• You’re unsure how to respond to Sun Life

A disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help you understand your rights, gather the right evidence, and deal directly with the insurer.

FAQ

Is stress leave covered by Sun Life?

Yes — if your mental health condition prevents you from working and is supported by medical evidence.

Can anxiety or depression qualify for disability?

Yes. What matters is how your condition affects your ability to work.

Why are stress leave claims denied?

Often due to insufficient medical evidence or lack of clear functional limitations.

How long does stress leave last?

Typically aligned with short-term disability — often up to 15–26 weeks.