Can you get unemployment for mental health issues in NY?

Mental health can qualify as good cause for leaving work under certain circumstances in NY. You'd need to show that your condition made it impossible to continue working and that you tried reasonable accommodations first. The key is having proper medical documentation from a licensed mental health professional. You'll likely need to file an initial claim and then go through adjudication where they'll review your case. Make sure you have records showing you discussed workplace accommodations with your employer before quitting.

I went through this exact situation last year. The NYS Department of Labor will want extensive documentation - not just a note saying you have anxiety. You need records showing how your mental health specifically prevented you from doing your job duties. My claim took almost 6 weeks to get approved because they had to verify everything with my psychiatrist. Also be prepared that if you can't work due to mental health, they might question whether you're able and available for work, which is required for UI benefits.

Be careful with this - I tried to get unemployment after leaving due to panic attacks and got denied initially. The NYS Department of Labor said I didn't prove good cause. I'm still fighting it in appeals. Make sure you have EVERYTHING documented before you quit. Like literally everything - emails to HR, medical records, accommodation requests, the whole nine yards. And honestly, getting through to someone at NYS Department of Labor to explain your situation is nearly impossible with their phone system.

just wanted to say hang in there. mental health is just as important as physical health and you deserve support. the system makes it way harder than it should be but don't give up

Have you looked into FMLA first? Sometimes that's a better option than quitting outright. Also check if your employer has an Employee Assistance Program - they might have mental health resources. The unemployment route is really uncertain and you might end up with no income for months while they decide your case. At least with FMLA your job is protected even if it's unpaid.

I work in HR and want to add some perspective on the accommodation process. Before considering leaving your job, definitely have a conversation with your manager or HR department about possible accommodations under the ADA. These could include schedule modifications, reduced hours, working from a quieter location, or even temporary leave. Many employers are more understanding about mental health accommodations than you might expect, especially if you approach it professionally with medical documentation. Document everything in writing - send follow-up emails after verbal conversations summarizing what was discussed. This creates the paper trail you'll need whether you stay or if you do end up needing to leave for good cause. The worst they can say is no, but at least you'll have shown you tried to work with them before making any major decisions.