Can You Claim PIP for Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder involves episodes of mania, hypomania and depression that can each affect everyday functioning in different ways.

Psychiatric conditions frequently receive enhanced-rate awards, with around 42% of psychiatric claims awarded the enhanced daily living rate and around 39% the enhanced mobility rate.

DWP looks at your typical pattern across mood episodes, not just how you present on one particular day.

Depressive episodes and daily living

During low periods, people with bipolar disorder may struggle with:

• preparing food or eating regularly
• washing, dressing and personal care
• managing medication reliably
• engaging with other people
• leaving the house at all

Manic or hypomanic episodes and PIP

Manic and hypomanic episodes can create different risks that are also relevant to PIP, including:

• impulsive or unsafe financial decisions
• poor judgement of risk while travelling or in public
• disrupted sleep leading to exhaustion
• difficulty completing tasks safely and to a consistent standard

Why fluctuation is central to a bipolar claim

Because bipolar disorder cycles between very different states, a claim describing only a stable period risks understating real difficulties.

It helps to describe:

• how often episodes occur
• what happens to you during a depressive episode
• what happens to you during a manic or hypomanic episode
• how you function between episodes

Evidence for a bipolar disorder claim

• psychiatrist and community mental health team records
• medication history, including mood stabilisers
• hospital admission records, if applicable
• a mood diary showing patterns over time
• statements from family or carers about episodes they have witnessed

Frequently asked questions

Can I claim PIP if I am currently stable on medication?

Yes, if you still experience episodes or ongoing effects, or if medication side effects themselves affect your daily living or mobility.

Does DWP understand that symptoms change between episodes?

Guidance requires assessors to consider your condition over a representative period, including fluctuation, rather than a single snapshot.

Check your eligibility

Complete our initial online PIP check to see how the effects of bipolar disorder on your life compare against the assessment criteria.

Silverwings Benefits is an independent paid service providing assistance with PIP applications. You can also apply directly through DWP free of charge.