Workplace accidents can leave lasting scars, both physical and emotional. While we often associate workers’ compensation with physical injuries, it’s essential to recognize that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be just as debilitating.
PTSD affects workers across North Dakota, especially those in high-risk fields like oil extraction. If you or your loved ones work in these capacities, it can be helpful to know if and when financial relief through workers’ compensation and other sources may be available.
Understanding PTSD and its impact
PTSD is a mental health condition that is often triggered by exposure to traumatic events. It can result from witnessing or experiencing life-threatening incidents, such as explosions, fires or severe accidents.
PTSD can impact a worker’s ability to perform their job effectively. It may lead to missed workdays, reduced productivity, and even long-term disability.
Symptoms may include:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Anxiety
- Avoidance behaviors
These and other symptoms of PTSD affect each person differently and to varying degrees. Workers and their families should keep an eye out for them after an accident or other traumatic work event.
The tremendous toll on workers
Unlike acute physical injuries, PTSD doesn’t always manifest immediately after a work accident. Workers may struggle silently, unaware that their emotional well-being is compromised. Sleeping, focusing on work or making safe choices can also be challenging. These can all adversely affect a person’s recovery from an accident and ability to return to work.
Workers’ compensation and PTSD
State laws allow for coverage of mental or psychological conditions caused primarily by a physical injury at work, though several rules and restrictions apply. As such, workers who develop PTSD symptoms after a workplace accident should seek professional help and document symptoms promptly. Further, parties should include this as part of their workers’ compensation claim.
Workers’ comp can cover medical expenses, therapy and lost wages related to PTSD. North Dakota allows up to two years to file a workers’ comp claim for work-related accidents.
However, PTSD by itself is often not covered by workers’ comp, so it can be crucial to work with an attorney to explore other sources of economic relief if you experience PTSD after a workplace accident or traumatic event. This can be particularly effective if an incident stems from the negligent actions of a third party.
Know your options for moving forward
Recovering from PTSD is a journey, but you’re not alone. You can work with an attorney to pursue workers’ compensation and other financial remedies to support you during difficult times, making it easier to focus on your health and recover.