Some jobs can place significant mental and emotional demands on employees. In certain situations, workplace stress or a traumatic event may contribute to a serious mental health condition that affects an employee’s ability to work.
Depending on the circumstances, some work-related psychological conditions may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Mental health claims can be complex, so it is important to understand how the condition developed and how it relates to the employee’s work.
Major Depressive Disorder
Depression is a serious mental health condition that can affect mood, sleep, motivation, concentration, and daily functioning.
Major depressive disorder can develop for many reasons. These may include trauma, chronic stress, difficult life experiences, or other personal and environmental factors.
Depression affects people differently. Some people may experience persistent sadness, unwanted thoughts, sleep problems, fatigue, or loss of motivation.
When depression affects an employee’s ability to concentrate, complete tasks, or maintain a regular work schedule, it may also interfere with job performance.
If a mental health condition is connected to a workplace event or work-related circumstances, an employee may want to speak with a workers’ compensation attorney about whether benefits could apply.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event.
Examples may include:
- A serious workplace accident
- A fatal or life-threatening incident
- Workplace violence
- Sexual harassment or assault
- Other traumatic events connected to employment
PTSD is not limited to military combat. Employees may also develop symptoms after a serious workplace event.
Symptoms can include anxiety, intrusive memories, sleep problems, avoidance, difficulty concentrating, and emotional distress. These symptoms may make it difficult for an employee to return to the same job or workplace.
Some workers may also experience related conditions, including depression or anxiety, after a traumatic event.
Can Mental Health Conditions Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
Mental health workers’ compensation claims can be more complicated than claims involving a physical injury. The employee may need to show a clear connection between the psychological condition and the workplace.
Medical records, treatment history, information about the workplace event, and documentation of symptoms may all become important when evaluating a claim.
Your mental health matters, and serious psychological conditions can have long-term effects on your health and ability to work.
If you are experiencing problems with a workers’ compensation claim involving depression, PTSD, or another work-related mental health condition, a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your legal options and the benefits that may be available.