Can You Get Workers' Comp For Anxiety And Emotional Distress?
Workers' compensation is traditionally there for those who suffer a physical injury at work. Did you know that it may be possible to get compensation if you have suffered emotionally or mentally from your workplace? This includes suffering from work-stress. Here's all you need to know about getting workers comp for anxiety and emotional distress.
It Isn't Going to Be Easy
The first thing to focus on is whether it is possible and whether you should try to claim it. The unfortunate truth is while getting workers' comp for stress, anxiety, or other emotional distress is possible, it isn't easy. In fact, the process of getting the compensation benefits make just make your emotional distress worse.
You'll need to decide if it is really worth it. If you're permanently impaired due to it, it may possibly be worth going through it. Whether you can do it or not will also depend on your state. It's important to discuss with a local lawyer to determine if this is something you can get for your distress.
Temporary Benefits Are Easier
Getting permanent benefits are far more difficult to come by. If your anxiety or stress was due to the job, you would be mentally fine once you leave the job. That's the thinking process anyway, as much as it may not be the truth.
This is why getting temporary benefits may be easier. Permanent benefits may be possible if you have a physical problem due to the anxiety or stress. For example, some people will suffer a heart attack and be left unable to work.
Need to Get Treatment
You will need to get medical treatment for your condition, especially a diagnosis from a doctor. This will prove that there is a medical issue that leaves you unable to work. While you may not think the treatments work, you will need to continue with them for the sake of the benefits. This can lead to extra stress or anxiety.
Some states will also have work or employment requirements that you will need to meet. In most cases, you will also need to apply for disability benefits and may need to be in receipt of them.
Proving the job has caused the stress, anxiety or emotional distress may be extremely difficult. It will also be hard to prove that this is going to keep you out of work. The best thing you can do is hire a lawyer with experience in claiming workers' comp when suffering emotionally or mentally. For more information, visit sites like http://www.lovettlaw.com/.