Yes, you can get life insurance with depression. Around 1 in 6 UK adults experience depression, and insurers understand it's a common condition. Mild, well-managed depression often results in standard rates, while moderate to severe depression may add 25-100% to premiums depending on severity, treatment, and history.
This comprehensive guide explains how depression affects life insurance applications, what insurers look for, and how to secure the best possible rates for your circumstances.
Yes, you can absolutely get life insurance with depression. Depression is extremely common - affecting 1 in 6 UK adults according to the Mental Health Foundation - and all major insurers provide cover for people with depression. The impact on premiums ranges from zero (for mild, well-managed cases) to significant loadings (for severe or poorly controlled depression).
UK insurers recognise that depression is a treatable medical condition, not an automatic barrier to life insurance. What matters most to insurers is:
Severity of depression - Mild, moderate, or severe classification
Treatment effectiveness - How well controlled with medication/therapy
Time since diagnosis - Longer stable history = better rates
Current status - Actively experiencing symptoms vs. in remission
Self-harm history - Any history requires specialist underwriting
Suicidal ideation - Past thoughts vs. attempts assessed differently
Medication compliance - Taking prescribed treatment as directed
Typical outcomes for life insurance applications with depression:
Mild Depression (Well-Managed)
Standard rates or 0-25% premium increase. On single medication (e.g., SSRI) with no recent symptoms, working full-time, no hospital admissions. Most insurers treat as low risk if stable for 12+ months.
Moderate Depression
25-75% premium increase. On multiple medications or higher doses, some functional impairment, occasional symptoms. May require GP report. Rates improve significantly with demonstrated stability.
Severe Depression
75-150% premium increase or postponement. Significant functional impairment, recent hospital admission, multiple medications, ongoing symptoms. Specialist impaired risk insurers often required. Some improvement possible with time if condition stabilises.
Recent Severe Episode or Self-Harm
Application typically postponed 6-12 months until stability demonstrated. Insurers want to see consistent recovery period before offering terms. Use this time to demonstrate treatment compliance and symptom management.
LifePro works with insurers who specialise in mental health underwriting, including those offering free mental health support apps (Aviva Digicare+, Vitality GP services) as policy benefits. We know which insurers are most lenient for specific depression profiles and can secure competitive quotes even for complex cases.
How depression affects life insurance premiums
Depression's impact on premiums ranges from nothing (mild cases) to 150%+ increases (severe cases with complications). The key factors are severity, stability over time, treatment compliance, and any history of hospitalization or self-harm.
Premium loading by depression severity and status:
Life Insurance Premium Impact by Depression Severity
Example monthly premiums for £200,000 Level Term (25-year term, age 35, non-smoker):
No self-harm history - Clean history of no self-harm thoughts or behaviors
Good treatment response - Depression well-controlled with minimal symptoms
Healthy lifestyle - Exercise, good sleep, no alcohol misuse support recovery
Important: Premium loadings typically reduce over time. If you've been stable for several years since getting your policy, you may be able to re-apply for better rates with a new policy and cancel the old one. This is particularly true if you were rated heavily when first diagnosed but have since demonstrated years of stability.
Types of depression and their impact on life insurance
Different types of depression are assessed differently by insurers. Major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and postnatal depression each have unique underwriting considerations.
How specific depression diagnoses affect life insurance:
Major Depressive Disorder (Clinical Depression)
Most common diagnosis. Single episode with full recovery: 0-25% premium increase. Recurrent episodes: 25-100% increase depending on frequency and severity. Time between episodes and stability during remission are key factors. Multiple episodes with long stable periods between assessed more favorably than chronic ongoing symptoms.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
Chronic low-grade depression lasting 2+ years. Typically 25-75% premium increase. Well-managed dysthymia with good functional ability gets better rates than poorly controlled major depression. Consistency of treatment compliance and work history important factors.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Depression occurring seasonally (typically winter). Generally 0-25% premium increase as it's predictable and time-limited. Treatment with light therapy, medication during winter months. Usually viewed favorably as it demonstrates clear pattern and proactive management.
Postnatal Depression
Depression following childbirth. Single episode with full recovery typically 0-25% increase after 12 months symptom-free. Multiple episodes with subsequent pregnancies assessed more carefully (50-75% increase). Time since last episode and current stability crucial. Many insurers lenient with PND given hormonal/circumstantial nature.
Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression)
More complex underwriting than unipolar depression. Typically 100-200% premium increase or decline depending on stability. Requires specialist impaired risk insurers. Well-managed bipolar with no recent episodes may get 75-100% loadings. Recent manic or depressive episodes usually result in postponement.
Depression with Anxiety Disorder
Comorbid depression and anxiety very common. Assessed based on combined severity - mild/moderate of both may only add 25-50%. Severe combined conditions can result in 75-150% increase. Treatment of both conditions and functional status key factors.
Special considerations for depression underwriting:
Reactive vs. Endogenous: Depression in response to life events (reactive) may be viewed more favorably than depression without clear trigger (endogenous)
Treatment-resistant depression: Failure of multiple medication trials results in higher premiums (100%+) and specialist insurers required
Psychotic features: Depression with psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, delusions) requires specialist underwriting and typically 150%+ loadings
Substance-induced: Depression related to alcohol or drug use assessed based on both substance use and depression severity
Be specific about your diagnosis when applying. "Depression" is a broad term, and providing accurate diagnosis type helps insurers assess your risk appropriately and may result in better premiums than vague descriptions.
What insurers ask about your depression
Insurers ask detailed questions about your depression to accurately assess risk. You'll need to provide information about diagnosis dates, medications, symptoms, hospitalization history, self-harm, and current status. Complete honesty is essential - non-disclosure can invalidate your policy.
Expect these questions on your life insurance application:
When were you diagnosed? - Exact date or approximate year of first diagnosis
What type of depression? - Specific diagnosis (major depressive disorder, dysthymia, SAD, etc.)
Who diagnosed you? - GP, psychiatrist, psychologist, counselor
What symptoms have you experienced? - Low mood, loss of interest, sleep problems, appetite changes, fatigue, suicidal thoughts
What treatment have you received? - Medications, therapy type, duration, effectiveness
Current medication details - Names, doses, how long taking, any recent changes
Time off work - Any work absences due to depression, duration, recency
Hospitalizations - Any psychiatric hospital admissions, dates, length of stay, reason
Self-harm history - Any thoughts or acts of self-harm, when, how treated
Suicidal ideation - Any suicidal thoughts (past or present), attempts, plans
Current status - Symptoms now vs. in remission, functional ability, support systems
Relapses - Number of depressive episodes, patterns, triggers
Medical evidence insurers may request:
GP Medical Report
Most common requirement for moderate or severe depression. Confirms diagnosis, treatment history, current status, medication compliance, functional ability. GP completes standardized form. Typical cost £50-150 (often insurer pays). Turnaround 2-4 weeks. Provides objective medical evidence to support your application.
Psychiatrist or Specialist Report
Required for severe depression, treatment-resistant cases, or complex mental health history. Specialist provides detailed assessment of diagnosis, prognosis, treatment response. More detailed than GP report. Takes 2-6 weeks. Expensive (£200-500) but usually insurer pays. Necessary for specialist impaired risk underwriting.
Hospital Records
If you've been hospitalised for depression, insurers will request discharge summaries and treatment records. Shows severity, treatment provided, length of stay, reasons for admission and discharge. Important for assessing current stability vs. past episodes. Essential for accurate risk assessment.
Answering questions honestly - what to disclose:
ALL diagnoses: Even if unofficial or from counselor, disclose if you've been told you have depression
Suicidal thoughts: YES, you must disclose even passive thoughts without intent - failure to disclose will invalidate policy
Self-harm (non-suicidal): Disclose any history even if not suicide-related (cutting, etc.)
Brief medication trials: Include antidepressants you tried briefly even if stopped
Therapy/counseling: All forms count - CBT, counseling, support groups, online therapy
Work impact: Sick leave or reduced hours due to mental health
Resolved episodes: Even if fully recovered years ago, disclose previous depression
What happens if you don't disclose depression:
If you die and insurers discover undisclosed depression in medical records, they will investigate
If depression contributed to death (suicide, accident during episode), claim will likely be rejected
Non-disclosure is insurance fraud and voids your policy entirely
Your family receives nothing - all premiums paid are wasted
Insurers have access to full GP records and will discover undisclosed conditions during claims
Better to pay higher premiums with honest disclosure than risk leaving your family with no payout
Working with a specialist broker like LifePro means we help you present your application clearly and comprehensively, highlighting positive factors (stability, treatment compliance, work history) while honestly disclosing your condition. We know what insurers need to hear and how to frame your depression history for the best possible outcome.
Getting the best life insurance rates with depression
You can significantly improve your life insurance premiums with depression by demonstrating stability, treatment compliance, shopping around with specialist insurers, and timing your application strategically.
Strategies to secure the best possible rates:
1. Demonstrate Long-Term Stability
Time is your best friend. If possible, wait until you've been symptom-free and stable for at least 12-24 months before applying. Premiums decrease dramatically with demonstrated stability. If you're early in treatment or recently diagnosed, waiting 1-2 years can save you thousands over the policy term. However, if you have dependents who need protection now, don't delay - you can always reapply later for better rates.
2. Maintain Treatment Compliance
Take medications as prescribed, attend all GP/psychiatrist appointments, engage with therapy if recommended. Insurers heavily weight treatment compliance - it shows responsibility and reduces risk. Never stop medication without medical supervision. If you need to change medications, work with your doctor rather than stopping abruptly. Documented compliance improves underwriting significantly.
3. Get Recent Medical Evidence
Before applying, see your GP for a review appointment. Get confirmation in your records that you're stable, compliant with treatment, and functioning well. Recent positive GP notes strengthen your application. If you've been stable for years, consider asking GP for simple letter confirming stable condition - this speeds up underwriting and demonstrates current status.
4. Work with Specialist Brokers
Not all insurers assess depression the same way. Some are significantly more lenient than others for specific profiles. LifePro knows which insurers offer the best rates for mild vs. moderate vs. severe depression, single episodes vs. recurrent, with vs. without hospitalization. We can often secure quotes 25-50% cheaper than going direct to insurers who are strict on mental health.
5. Consider Insurers with Mental Health Benefits
Some insurers (Aviva, Vitality, The Exeter) include free mental health apps, GP access, and counseling services as policy benefits. These provide additional value beyond just the death benefit. If you're choosing between similar premiums, pick the insurer offering mental health support - it's valuable ongoing benefit.
6. Improve Your Overall Health Profile
Healthy lifestyle factors offset mental health concerns. Don't smoke, maintain healthy BMI, exercise regularly, limit alcohol. Insurers assess holistic risk - strong physical health combined with well-managed depression results in better rates than depression plus smoking or obesity. Focus on controllable factors to demonstrate overall low-risk profile.
Life insurance pricing examples with depression (£150,000 Level Term, 20 years):
Monthly Premium Examples by Age and Depression Status
When to reapply for better rates:
After 2+ years of stable, symptom-free status if you were rated heavily when first diagnosed
If you've reduced medication dosage or stopped medication under GP supervision
After 5+ years if you had hospitalization - rates improve significantly with time
If your original policy was declined or postponed - circumstances may have changed
When you've made significant lifestyle improvements (quit smoking, lost weight, etc.)
Free mental health support included with some life insurance policies:
Insurers Offering Mental Health Benefits
Remember: Having depression doesn't mean you can't get affordable life insurance. With the right approach, specialist broker support, and by demonstrating stability and treatment compliance, most people with depression can secure competitive life insurance to protect their families.
Yes, you can get life insurance with depression. Around 1 in 6 UK adults experience depression, and all major insurers provide cover. Mild, well-managed depression often results in standard rates or small premium increases (0-25%). Moderate depression typically adds 25-75% to premiums, while severe depression may add 75-150%. The key factors are severity, how well-controlled it is, time since diagnosis, and any history of hospitalization or self-harm. Most people with depression successfully get life insurance.
Will my depression increase my life insurance premiums?
It depends on the severity and how well-managed your depression is. Mild depression that's stable for 12+ months often has no premium increase or just 0-25%. Moderate depression typically adds 25-75%, while severe depression with complications can add 75-150% or more. Factors that keep premiums lower include: being on a single medication at stable dose, working full-time, no hospitalization history, no self-harm, and demonstrating long-term stability. Premiums improve over time with continued stability.
Do I have to tell life insurance about my depression?
YES, you absolutely must disclose your depression when applying for life insurance. Failure to disclose is insurance fraud and will invalidate your policy - meaning your family receives no payout if you die. Insurers have access to full medical records and will discover undisclosed conditions during claims investigations. Even if your depression is mild or resolved years ago, you must declare it. Better to pay slightly higher premiums with honest disclosure than risk leaving your family with nothing.
What if I've been hospitalised for depression?
Hospitalization for depression significantly affects underwriting but doesn't prevent getting cover. If hospitalised 5+ years ago with no recurrence, expect 50-100% premium increase. Recent hospitalization (within 2 years) typically results in 100-200% increases or application postponement until stability demonstrated. Specialist impaired risk insurers are essential - they regularly insure people with psychiatric hospitalization history. Provide complete hospital records, demonstrate current stability, and work with specialist brokers who know which insurers are most lenient.
Can I get life insurance if I've had suicidal thoughts?
Yes, but it's complex. Passive suicidal thoughts (without intent or plan) from years ago, now resolved, may result in 50-100% premium increase with specialist insurers. Recent suicidal ideation typically results in application postponement for 6-12 months until stability demonstrated. Suicide attempts require longer waiting periods (12-24 months) and specialist underwriting with significant premium loadings. Full honesty essential - non-disclosure of suicidal history will void your policy. Work with specialist brokers experienced in mental health underwriting.
Should I wait until my depression improves before applying?
It depends on your situation. If you're recently diagnosed or recently had a severe episode, waiting 12-24 months until you demonstrate stability can save thousands in premiums. However, if you have financial dependents who need protection now (mortgage, children, partner who relies on your income), don't delay - get cover now even at higher premiums. You can always reapply for better rates later once you've demonstrated longer stability. Early protection is better than no protection while waiting for ideal rates.
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Get Life Insurance with Depression
LifePro specialises in finding life insurance for people with depression. Our team works with insurers who understand mental health conditions and offer competitive rates. Whether you have mild, moderate, or severe depression, we can help you find suitable cover. Get free, no-obligation quotes from depression-friendly insurers in minutes.
