It’s common for mental health issues to be a contributing factor in workplace injuries. Some estimates show that more than half of all workers’ compensation claims are associated with some type of mental health issue.
There are a variety of mental health issues that can contribute to a workplace injury, but some of the most common include:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Stress disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
These mental health issues can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Poor decision making
- Impaired motor skills
- Sleep problems
All of these problems can increase the likelihood of a workplace accident or injury.
What about Workers’ Compensation for Mental Health Injuries?
Most people wouldn’t hesitate to file a workers’ comp claim if they are physically injured in the workplace. This isn’t the case when it comes to psychological injuries.
People often dismiss their mental health as not being as important as their physical health. They might also dismiss the psychological issues they’re experiencing as not being related to work. And in all honesty, legally it can be difficult to prove that a mental health issue was caused by workplace events.
One exception is if you are filing a mental health injury claim related to a specific workplace violence incident.
It’s important to recognize, though, that any instance in which you experience or witness a catastrophic or life-threatening event at work can make you eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Employees working in some fields might have an easier time proving their case, but you shouldn’t assume that you aren’t eligible just because you aren’t a paramedic or police officer or emergency room doctor. Traumatic events can occur in any workplace.
Long-term Effects of Trauma
It is natural to feel scared, confused, or angry after experiencing a traumatic event. However, for some people, these feelings don’t go away and can even get worse over time. This can lead to problems at work or school, in relationships, and with mental and physical health.
The effects of exposure to a traumatic event can manifest in many ways and vary from person to person.
One of the most common symptoms is re-experiencing the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares. This can be extremely distressing and may make it difficult for the individual to function in everyday life. This is especially true when work requires you to return to the scene of the event day after day.
Other common symptoms include avoidance of reminders of the trauma, negative changes in mood, and thought patterns, and feeling constantly on edge (known as hyperarousal). These symptoms can make it hard for someone who experienced trauma to go about their daily life. It can also lead to social isolation.
If you are struggling to cope after a traumatic event, it is important to seek professional help. There are many effective treatments available that can help you manage your symptoms and start to feel like yourself again.
How Can a Work Injury Lawyer Help You with the Workers’ Compensation Claim Process?
If you’ve experienced a traumatic event in the workplace and you’re struggling to adapt after the event, a Maryland work injury lawyer can assess your situation and help you determine the best course of action. Contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.
Shugarman & Mehring
Phone: 