In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety have become commonplace. In some instances, employment is the trigger. Constant panic attacks may make it impossible to hold down a job.
Qualifying for workers’ compensation due to mental health conditions can be tricky. Those experiencing work-induced anxiety should educate themselves before filing a claim.
Understanding workers’ compensation
Workers’ compensation is insurance that benefits employees who suffer a range of job-related injuries and illnesses. The purpose is to cover ensuing medical expenses, lost wages and rehabilitation costs, with the end goal being to help claimants fully recover and return to their positions. However, the inclusion of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, varies depending on the circumstances.
When does workers’ compensation cover anxiety?
Anxiety must directly relate to the workplace to qualify under workers’ compensation. If the cause is something else, one should expect a denial. Thus, the employee needs proof that anxiety would not exist without on-duty stress or incidents.
Proving work-related anxiety
Establishing that anxiety originates from one’s job is challenging. Unlike physical injuries, where there is often clear evidence and documentation, mental health is more subjective. Employees usually provide medical documentation to show that the situation stems from their working environment.
Factors that influence coverage
Several variables impact whether workers’ compensation will cover anxiety, among them being the fine print of the policy in question. It also depends on the employee’s thoroughness in filling out paperwork and correctly executing the claims process. Each case is unique, and the outcome can vary significantly from one person to the next.
Workers with severe anxiety due to their jobs should begin by seeking medical attention. Next, they would do well to consult with their human resources departments and learn about their options for support.