Workers’ Compensation For Mental Health Conditions

Often people picture physical injuries such as broken bones or back strains when they think about workers’ compensation. But mental health conditions, from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to anxiety and depression can also be work-related and may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Maryland.

Have a conversation with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer if your job has caused or significantly contributed to a mental health condition. It’s possible you are entitled to benefits that can cover medical treatment, therapy, and lost wages.

Some Professions Carry More Risk

Maryland workers’ compensation law recognizes two main categories of mental health-related claims. For example, mental-physical claims arise when a mental health condition develops as a result of a physical injury. So, if a worker suffers a severe back injury and later develops depression due to chronic pain and limited mobility, they may be eligible for workers’ comp benefits.

There are also mental-mental claims that involve mental health conditions that arise due to extreme stress, trauma, or workplace conditions without a direct physical injury. While more challenging to prove, these claims may still qualify for benefits, particularly in high-stress professions.

Certain jobs are more likely to lead to work-related mental health conditions, including the following.

• First responders. Repeated exposure to traumatic events can cause PTSD and anxiety disorders. This can be true for police, firefighters, and EMTs. First responders in Maryland have additional legal protections that may make it easier for them to qualify for benefits.
• Healthcare workers. Nurses, doctors, and other medical staff often experience burnout, emotional exhaustion, and depression from long hours and high-pressure situations.
• Teachers and social workers. Managing large workloads, dealing with difficult situations, and experiencing verbal abuse can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.
• Corrections officers. Working in dangerous environments with the risk of violence can contribute to severe mental health issues.

Unlike physical injuries, which can be documented with medical exams and imaging, mental health conditions are often harder to prove in a workers’ compensation case. To build a strong claim, employees must show a clear link between work conditions and the mental health disorder. Additionally, a diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional and evidence that the condition significantly impairs their ability to work is necessary.

Access Support When Struggling

Professionals are available to assist when you or someone you care about is coping with a work-related mental health condition. Mental health professionals can guide individuals through their healing process and seasoned Baltimore personal injury lawyers have the experience to move a claim through the complex legal requirements for mental health-related benefits. Legal experts know how to gather medical evidence to support a claim and appeal denied claims, should an employer or insurance company push back on the need for recovery.

What job brought significant emotional distress into your life? Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. If your job has caused you mental health challenges, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance. Contacting the attorneys at Iamele & Iamele, LLP is the first step toward securing the support and financial relief you need. Contact us to book a confidential appointment.