Work Injury

See What Constitutes Emotional or Psychological Work Injury

When it comes to work-related injury, most people think about accidents and physical damage incurred by employees in their place of work. Physical injuries acquired while on the job (ex. Back injury due lifting cargo, broken arm caused by a fall in the office corridors) are usually covered by the company involved, should the complainant be able to prove that the accident happened due to neglect or error on the side of the employers.

But what about non-physical damage? What about psychological or emotional stress caused by the work environment or colleagues? Is it possible to have a company answer for that as well?

How Emotional or Psychological Stress can be Counted as a Work-Related Injury

In the recent years, psychological claims are becoming increasingly normal in the workplace. In events such as bank robberies, hostages, etc.; a lot of workers experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. If cases of this disorder are reported immediately, your employer should cover the expenses garnered in your treatment.

Other psychological claims include: emotional stress caused by discrimination in the workplace, bullying, physical and emotional exhaustion caused by unreasonable workload, sexual harassment and work environment.

Different States have different laws and procedures regarding emotional or psychological stress injury at work, so it would be best to consult a lawyer if you think you may be a candidate for it.

However, should you be thinking about making a complaint, make sure it is well-documented and supported by enough evidence (witnesses are crucial). You’ll also have to be able to prove that your emotional or psychological trauma was caused by and only by these experiences at work – and not other factors outside your work life.

On tips on how to get a good work-related injury lawyer, click here.