Understanding FMLA and Short-Term Disability for Mental Health

Taking Time for Your Mental Health

Mental health conditions like anxiety, burnout, or depression can make it challenging to keep up with daily responsibilities. If you’re struggling, you may qualify for protected medical leave through the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or short-term disability benefits.

At My Wellness Psychiatry, we understand how important it is to take time for your well-being—and we’re here to help guide you through your options.

What Is FMLA?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for a serious health condition, which can include mental health issues that interfere with your ability to work.

FMLA can be used for:

• Major depressive disorder
• Anxiety or panic disorders
• PTSD or trauma-related conditions
• Bipolar disorder or other mood disorders

In order to qualify, you typically need to have worked for your employer for at least 12 months and 1,250 hours during the past year.

What Is Short-Term Disability?

Short-term disability (STD) is an insurance benefit (offered through your employer or a private plan) that provides partial income replacement while you’re unable to work due to a medical or mental health condition.

Unlike FMLA, short-term disability usually provides pay during your time off—often around 60–70% of your income—for several weeks or months, depending on your plan.

Conditions that may qualify for short-term disability include:

• Severe depression or anxiety
• Adjustment disorder
• Psychiatric hospitalization
• Medication side effects or treatment transitions

How FMLA and Short-Term Disability Work Together

Many patients use both FMLA and short-term disability at the same time. FMLA protects your job, while short-term disability provides partial pay during your leave.

Your provider at My Wellness Psychiatry can complete the necessary documentation, verifying that you’re under medical care for a mental health condition that requires time off or treatment adjustments.

How My Wellness Psychiatry Can Help

Our team is well-equipped to support patients throughout this process. We can:

• Provide medical documentation for FMLA or disability forms
• Communicate with your HR department or disability provider if needed
• Develop a plan for your return to work and ongoing care

We believe taking care of your mental health is not a sign of weakness, but rather a step towards healing and long-term stability.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need time to focus on recovery, reach out to My Wellness Psychiatry today. We’ll help you explore your options and guide you through every step of the process.