Mental health concerns no longer carry the stigma they once did, but they are just as important to address today as they were in the past. Mental health challenges can take on many forms, and some people can live normal lives despite mental health concerns. Even still, if you or a loved one suffers from a mental health challenge, it’s important to think about how to navigate complex matters like estate planning in light of the potential for complications to arise.
Your Future Health
One of the biggest hurdles to overcome when dealing with estate planning and mental illness is the possibility for things to change. Even if you are stable in your thinking right now, if your condition worsens, you may no longer be able to make sound decisions. This can be a problem if you plan to work with an estate planning professional in the future. Decisions made while you are suffering from a mental health concern may not hold up in court should these decisions be challenged in the future.
Your estate plan may also need to factor in things like life insurance accounts and the stipulations that come along with them. Mental illness can impact your physical health, and your life insurance provider may have specific clauses in your policy that dictate how mental health concerns are addressed if you pass due to a mental health challenge.
Talk to Your Doctor
The best thing you can do for your mental health and its effect on your estate planning is to work closely with your doctor. Your physician will be able to provide you with options that are specific to your needs as they relate to caring for your mental health and making important decisions in the future. Seeking care from your doctor is also a wise move when it comes to estate planning and mental illness if your doctor needs to provide testimony in a legal case involving your estate down the road.
Author Resource:-
Mark writes often about estate planning. His articles may include topics like real estate closing attorney and business succession laws to help the people in needs. You can find his thoughts at estate planning blog.