When we think of work-related injuries, we often picture physical harm: broken bones, torn muscles, or head trauma. However, not all injuries are visible to the naked eye. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event on the job, such as a violent assault or catastrophic accident.
In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the debilitating effects of PTSD and its impact on workers’ ability to perform their duties. But does PTSD qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Tennessee?
A Knoxville workers’ compensation lawyer can help you understand your rights when seeking benefits for work-related PTSD.
Understanding PTSD as a Work Injury
PTSD develops when someone experiences or witnesses a deeply distressing event that overwhelms their ability to cope. Unlike a typical stress response that gradually diminishes, PTSD symptoms can persist for months or years. The workplace can become a source of trauma through various situations, from witnessing catastrophic accidents to experiencing violence or extreme psychological stress.
For example, a police officer might develop PTSD after witnessing a violent crime scene, while an emergency room nurse could experience symptoms following the loss of a patient under traumatic circumstances. Even office workers or retail employees can develop this condition after experiencing workplace violence or robbery. Construction workers, factory employees, and transportation workers may develop PTSD after witnessing catastrophic accidents involving coworkers.
Common Symptoms of PTSD
If you experience trauma at work, you may develop PTSD. You may not even realize that the event has affected you until weeks or months later when you find yourself grappling with debilitating symptoms.
Some of the most common signs of PTSD include:
- Recurring nightmares or flashbacks of the traumatic event that interfere you’re your concentration and sleep patterns
- Severe anxiety and panic attacks when encountering situations that remind you of the incident
- Emotional numbness and withdrawal, leading to communication difficulties and decreased job performance
- Physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and trembling when exposed to trauma-related triggers
How to Recover Workers’ Comp Benefits for PTSD
You have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim for PTSD in Tennessee if you experienced a traumatic event or series of events during your employment. Psychological injuries are valid grounds for compensation as long as you can prove your job directly caused the condition. You may qualify for several types of benefits, including medical treatment, temporary disability payments while you recover, and permanent disability benefits if your PTSD causes lasting impairment.
Timing is essential in these cases. Report any traumatic incident to your supervisor immediately and seek professional mental health treatment as soon as possible. Document everything related to the event and your symptoms, as this evidence strengthens your claim.
Challenges to Securing Workers’ Compensation for PTSD
Proving PTSD in workers’ compensation cases presents unique challenges because the injury is not visible like a broken bone. Insurance companies often try to argue that outside factors caused your condition or that the traumatic event wasn’t severe enough to warrant compensation. They may also question the connection between your PTSD and your ability to work.
Given these obstacles, working with a workers’ compensation attorney is crucial. Your lawyer will help gather medical evidence, expert testimony, and witness statements to establish the connection between your job duties and your PTSD.
After seeking medical care, contact a Knoxville workers’ compensation attorney at The Lawyers of Brown & Roberto right away to schedule a free consultation and begin building your case. The sooner you reach out, the better positioned you will be to secure the compensation and treatment you deserve.