Mental stress injuries encompass conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder or other emotional ailments resulting from persistent work-related stress. An unhealthy workplace environment and practices can result in stress. Stress Claims for such situations are protected by work-related stress law such as stress-related workers’ compensation.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health in 2016 found that employees who reported high levels of workplace stress were more likely to have depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. These studies provide strong evidence that work-related stress can have a negative impact on mental health.
What workplace stress might look like?
Workplace stress triggers anxiety, depression, and burnout due to pressure, unreal expectations, and fear. It affects job performance and relationships with colleagues, causing mood swings, reduced cognitive function, sleep disorders, and social withdrawal. Prolonged stress can lead to exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced accomplishment, impacting both work and relationships.
Chronic workplace stress correlates with health problems such as high blood pressure, muscle tension causing pain, digestive disruptions like indigestion, weakened immunity, and weight fluctuations. It can induce fatigue, respiratory issues, and skin problems like acne, underlining its holistic impact on mental and physical well-being.
Contributors to workplace stress?
Many factors can cause work-related stress. Some of the most common causes include:
- Excessive Workload
- Tight deadlines
- Uncertainty about your work and role
- Conflict with co-workers, supervisors, or customers
- Bullying or harassment in the workplace
- Job insecurity
- Poor working conditions
What steps can I take to claim workplace stress?
The process of a workplace stress claim can vary depending on the country or state you are in. However, there are some general steps that you must follow to ensure getting your stress-related workers’ compensation:
- Consult a doctor or mental health professional: To claim workers’ compensation for stress, you will need to get a medical diagnosis from a doctor or mental health professional. This will confirm that your stress is caused by your work environment and is not due to other factors, such as a pre-existing condition.
- Document your stress: Keep a record of any incidents or events that have caused you stress at work. This could include emails, letters, or other documentation.
- Report your stress to your employer: Let your employer know that you are experiencing stress and that you believe it is caused by your work environment. They may be able to offer you some solutions, such as reducing your workload or giving you more flexibility in your schedule.
- File a workers’ compensation claim: If your employer is not able to help you, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation for stress claim. This is a government program that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their work.
The specific requirements for filing a workers’ compensation claim will vary depending on the country or state you are in. However, you will generally need to provide evidence that your stress is caused by your work environment and that it has resulted in a disability.
It is important to note that the process of claiming workplace stress can be complex and time-consuming. If you are considering filing a claim, it is a good idea to speak to an attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation law. Call Workers’ Compensation Lawyer at (844) 414-1768 to speak with an attorney about your Injury Settlement case at Pistiolas Office.
