What if a work-related mental health issue keeps me from working?
Most mental health issues are not covered under Workers’ Compensation. However, you may have a Workers’ Compensation claim if a mental illness, such as depression, is the result of the pain from your work injury. This is referred to as a consequential injury. Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can also be considered a work injury when it is the result of a work-related incident.
Our Minnesota-based law firm recently had the opportunity to represent a Stillwater man who had developed post traumatic stress disorder as a result of his job. We fought the insurance company and secured a large settlement which compensated him for his mental and physical work injuries including wage loss, medical treatment expenses, and permanent partial disability.
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Minnesota Workers’ Compensation laws changed in October 1, 2013 when PTSD became a compensable standalone work injury. Prior to that date, individuals suffering from PTSD were not entitled to any wage loss or medical benefits under the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation system unless a physical work-related injury had also occurred.
In 2018, the law changed again for PTSD initially diagnosed on or after January 1, 2019 to presume PTSD is a result of certain types of occupations, such as police officers, firefighters, and various emergency personnel on active duty.
If you believe you have a work-related mental health issue, contact us. Our experienced Minnesota Workers’ Compensation attorneys can review your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options.
