Life Insurance with Depression

Can I Get Life Insurance with Depression?

Yes — depression is a very common condition among UK life insurance applicants and is widely insurable. The majority of people with a history of depression can obtain life insurance, often at standard or near-standard rates. The outcome depends on the severity of the depression, how long ago it was, whether you are currently taking medication, and whether there is any history of hospitalisation or suicidal ideation.

Single episodes of mild or moderate depression that have been treated and resolved are viewed very favourably by most UK insurers. Recurrent, severe, or treatment-resistant depression may attract more significant underwriting consideration, but cover is still usually available.

How Does Depression Affect My Premium?

The premium impact depends on your specific history:

• Single mild episode, now resolved: Standard rates in most cases
• Single moderate episode on medication: Standard to 50% loading
• Recurrent depression, currently managed: 50–150% loading typical
• Severe depression with hospitalisation history: Higher loading or postponement; depends on time elapsed since last episode
• History of suicidal ideation: More significant underwriting; some insurers may decline, others will apply a loading; specialist advice essential

What Information Will the Insurer Ask For?

When you apply with a history of depression, insurers will typically ask:

• When did your depression first start and when was your last episode?
• Have you ever been hospitalised due to depression or any mental health condition?
• Are you currently taking antidepressants? Which ones and at what dose?
• Have you ever had thoughts of self-harm or suicide?
• Have you had time off work due to depression?
• Do you have any other mental or physical health conditions?

Honest, complete disclosure is essential. Insurers check GP records at the point of claim and non-disclosure is the most common reason a claim is declined.

Which Insurers Are Most Competitive?

Legal & General, Aviva and Royal London are generally competitive for applicants with a history of depression. Vitality may also be favourable for those who are fully recovered. The key is finding the insurer whose underwriting criteria best match your specific history.

The most competitive insurer for your specific profile can only be identified by comparing the whole market. Premiums vary significantly — sometimes by 30–40% — for the same applicant across different providers.

Can I Also Get Critical Illness Cover and Income Protection?

Critical illness cover is generally available for those with a history of depression, often at the same terms as life insurance, since standard CIC policies do not cover depression itself. A loading consistent with the life insurance premium may apply.

Income protection requires careful consideration. A history of depression may result in a mental health exclusion on an IP policy — meaning claims arising from depression or related mental health conditions are excluded, while all other causes of incapacity are still covered. Some specialist insurers do offer income protection that includes mental health. Your adviser can identify the most appropriate policy for your specific situation.

Tips for Applying with Depression

• Be fully transparent: Always disclose your full medical history. Non-disclosure is the most common reason for a declined claim — and insurers check medical records at the point of claim.
• Use a whole-of-market adviser: They know which insurers are most favourable for your condition and can submit your application to get the best available terms.
• Apply when well-controlled: If your condition is managed with medication, applying when your condition is stable and well-controlled gives the best chance of favourable terms.
• Don't self-reject: Many people assume they cannot get cover or will pay extortionate premiums. In the majority of cases, cover is available at reasonable cost.