Post-traumatic stress disorder is a condition that can significantly impact your ability to perform your job and lead a fulfilling life. If you experience PTSD because of a work-related accident, you should factor it into your workers’ compensation claim.
Recognizing the role of PTSD in such claims can help you secure the full amount of financial compensation you deserve.
Recognition of PTSD as a valid claim
PTSD is often associated with events such as accidents, violence or disasters. However, it can also stem from severe workplace incidents. In the context of workers’ compensation, PTSD is a legitimate condition that can arise from occupational experiences. PTSD can manifest from various situations, such as suffering a sudden injury or enduring chronic workplace stress.
Establishing a direct connection to work
For any successful workers’ compensation claim, it is necessary to establish a link between the condition and the workplace. You may need to demonstrate that the work environment significantly contributed to the development of PTSD. Providing concrete evidence and professional assessments are important steps in building a case.
The impact on daily functioning
PTSD can affect an individual’s daily life, making it challenging to perform job duties effectively. Symptoms such as flashbacks and emotional distress can hinder an employee’s ability to maintain a stable work routine. Employers should acknowledge these challenges when a workers’ compensation claim comes forward.
Statistics indicate that 20% of people who experience a traumatic event will develop PTSD. A catastrophic injury that happens at work, where you feel comfortable in your daily routine, can certainly be traumatic. The stress of such an event should absolutely reflect in your workers’ compensation settlement.
