Workplace injuries bring not only physical pain but also significant mental health challenges. Injured workers often face anxiety about getting proper workers’ compensation benefits and the necessary healthcare to recover fully and return to work. Fear of job loss, coupled with financial stress from lost wages, add to the burden, making it difficult for injured employees to meet basic needs like housing, food, and medical care.
The workplace provides a sense of identity and social interaction, which can be lost during long recovery periods. This isolation can lead to decline in overall well-being, contributing to the high rates of mental health issues seen in injured workers. These mental health concerns are an important aspect of workers’ compensation cases and should be addressed early.
Common Mental Health Effects in Workers’ Compensation Claims
Injuries at work can affect many areas of life, leading to a higher incidence of mental health disorders among injured workers. Some of the most common conditions related to workplace injuries include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Adjustment Disorder
- Drug and Alcohol Dependence
Anxiety: The World Health Organization (WHO) describes anxiety disorders as excessive fear and worry that disrupt daily life. Injured workers may experience anxiety due to concerns about lost wages, time off work, potential job loss, physical pain, and fear of long-term disability.
Depression: According to WHO, depression is more than just a low mood; it’s a serious condition that can affect an individual’s ability to function. Symptoms include poor concentration, low self-worth, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, and low energy. Chronic pain from workplace injuries can worsen depression, even years after the incident.
PTSD: PTSD is common in workers who have experience traumatic events on the job. WHO defines PTSD by symptoms such as re-living the trauma through memories or nightmares, avoiding reminders of the event, and feeling constantly threatened. These symptoms can severely impact a worker’s daily functioning.
Adjustment Disorder: The National Institute of Health (NIH) explains that adjustments disorders result from significant life changes or stress. Symptoms may include depression, anxiety, and risky behavior, such as reckless driving or substance abuse, lasting for six months or more.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence: The financial and emotional stress, coupled with physical pain from injuries, can lead some workers to misuse prescription painkillers or to turn to substance abuse. The use of illicit drugs, including opioids, or alcohol can result in serious health issues and even death. It’s critical to seek treatment for substance dependence if it arises.
The Importance of Early Mental Health Intervention in Workers’ Compensation
Early intervention is key in addressing the mental health issues that frequently accompany workers’ compensation claims. It’s important to recognize that mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders, and substance abuse can be triggered or worsened by workplace injuries. These conditions are not signs of weakness or personal failure but are legitimate health concerns that need support.
Resources for Injured Workers Seeking Mental Health Support
- Center for Disease Control (CDC)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Get Comprehensive Workers’ Compensation Care at Ivy Rehab
If you or your employees have experienced a workplace injury, it’s crucial to address both the physical and mental health aspects of recovery. Ivy Rehab offers specialized Workers’ Compensation services designed to help injured workers regain their health and return to work as quickly and safely as possible. Our team provides personalized care plans that include physical therapy, mental health support, and coordination with employers to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Article by: John S. Armstrong, PT, DPT, CSCS
John graduated from Northwestern University with his Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2013 and has specialized in outpatient orthopedics since beginning his career. John has spent much of his career treating Workers Compensation patients, and managed numerous industrial services clinics around Chicago, Illinois. He is committed to helping patients reach their full potential and assist in the return to their full potential. John currently treats at Ivy Rehab in Belleville, Michigan.
Learn more about how Ivy Rehab can support your Workers’ Compensation needs.
