Term Life Insurance for Depression & Anxiety

SSRIs like Lexapro (escitalopram) and Zoloft (sertraline) are among the most commonly prescribed medications in America, and carriers are very familiar with them. For applicants with mild to moderate depression or anxiety treated with a single SSRI, many carriers offer Standard or Standard Plus rates. The medication itself is not the primary concern; underwriters focus on diagnosis severity, treatment stability, and overall functional status. Actual premiums vary by carrier and individual underwriting.

Yes, you must disclose all medications, including antidepressants, on your life insurance application. Carriers verify prescription histories through pharmacy databases (such as the MIB and Milliman IntelliScript), so undisclosed medications will likely be discovered and could result in application denial or future claims complications. Disclosing your medication and demonstrating stable, proactive treatment is viewed much more favorably than an inconsistent application.

Yes, anxiety treated with medication (SSRIs, SNRIs, or buspirone) is generally underwritten similarly to depression at most carriers. Mild to moderate anxiety on a single medication with stable treatment typically qualifies for Standard or better rates. Some carriers may even view anxiety as a slightly more favorable diagnosis than depression for rating purposes. All coverage is subject to underwriting approval by the issuing carrier.

Underwriters typically review your full mental health history as reported in medical records and on your application. However, the most weight is placed on the past 3-5 years of treatment. Stable treatment over a longer period is viewed positively. A single depressive episode 10 years ago that resolved with treatment is viewed very differently from ongoing, recurrent episodes. Hospitalizations or disability claims are given special attention regardless of when they occurred.

Carriers may request an Attending Physician Statement (APS) from your treating mental health provider as part of the underwriting process, especially for higher coverage amounts or more complex histories. The APS typically includes diagnosis, treatment duration, medication history, and clinical assessment of your condition. Your provider cannot share records without your authorization, which you grant as part of the application process. Having a treatment provider who documents your stability and compliance can be an advantage.