Psychological injuries may be covered by workers’ compensation

As an employee in New Jersey, you should know that your injuries from working will normally be covered by workers’ compensation. New Jersey’s workers’ compensation covers things like:

  • Accidents and injuries caused by a work-related incident
  • Repetitive-strain injuries or repetitive stress injuries
  • Illnesses related to harmful allergens or substances

One question that many workers have is if their anxiety or depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychological wounds can be covered. The truth is that any injury or illness caused by a work-related accident should be covered, but it can be tough to prove that these issues were caused by the work environment.

What should you do if you want to seek workers’ compensation for PTSD or other psychological injuries?

If you develop a psychological injury on the job, it’s important that you are able to link it back to your work. For example, if you witness a serious accident that takes the life of a co-worker, then that could definitely link post-traumatic stress, anxiety or depression to your workplace, especially if you did not have the condition in the past.

It’s a good idea to go to see your doctor and to have them diagnose you with the condition. Let the medical provider know when your symptoms worsened. If it is a work-related illness, then they can give you the documentation you need to try to prove your claim.

Your attorney can work closely with you to help you gather the documentation you need if you want to make a claim or have had a workers’ compensation claim denied. Our website has more information on the steps to take next.

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