Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Workers Comp

Post traumatic stress disorder is a mental disorder brought on by a severe or traumatic event. It's estimated that approximately 7% to 8% of Americans will suffer from this at some point. People who work in dangerous or high stress environments, such as policemen, firemen, and EMT's are especially vulnerable, though anyone who has experienced trauma is at risk of developing PTSD. Unlike average job stress, PTSD is usually triggered by a horrific event, such as an assault, accident, or other terrifying situation. Those suffering from this condition may be unable to work due to the severe mental and physical symptoms of post traumatic stress.

What is Considered a Valid Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

People with post traumatic stress disorder may suffer from a wide variety of psychological symptoms. Because everyone responds to trauma differently, not everyone will have the same symptoms. For some, post traumatic stress may cause mild anxiety or depression, while others may have severe reactions that negatively affect their jobs and their personal relationships.

Common mental symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder include: 

• Flashbacks of the traumatic event
• Being easily startled or jumpy
• Depression
• Emotional detachment
• Irritability and anger
• Self destructive or violent behavior
• OCD, or obsessive compulsive behavior
• Memory and concentration problems
• Nightmares

Physical Symptoms:

Stress doesn't just affect the mind; it also has a negative affect on the body. Post traumatic stress can cause a number of physical symptoms as well, such as:

• Headaches
• Ulcers
• High Blood Pressure
• Heart Attack
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue

Filing a Workers Compensation Claim

If work-related post traumatic stress has become so severe that a person is unable to work, they may be able to obtain benefits through workers compensation. This will give them the time and  resources needed to heal their psychological scars. Though specific laws vary by state, most states require a  psychological disability evaluation by a trained professional in order to verify that a person is suffering from PTSD and not just average job stress. This psychological disability evaluation will be submitted to the employee's workers comp insurance carrier. If the claim is approved, compensation may include pay for lost wages as well as treatments for any physical symptoms and for the traumatic stress, as well as depression,OCD, and any other related psychological issues.

Help from a Workers Compensation Attorney

Anyone suffering from PTSD due to a workplace accident or event should contact an attorney, who can help make the workers comp claims process a less confusing and stressful ordeal. In addition, those who have had a PTSD claim denied should seek legal counsel in order to know what their legal options are.