Many believe that workers' comp is only for physical injuries. In actuality, depression is a valid condition that may be eligible for workers' comp. It generally applies to work injuries, and mental health conditions fall under that umbrella. Those that have been diagnosed with depression and similar illnesses can say that their work was a contributing factor to their depression or added to it.
Depression is a serious illness that affects the brain, body, and spirit of an individual. When you experience depression, your brain does not function normally. The brain's ability to process information and feelings is affected by the number of chemicals released into your body. This means that your brain has no control over how much of what you think and feel. It is a serious condition with actual mental and physical repercussions. Thankfully, the law understands this now and permits workers to apply for workers' comp for mental health issues.
Causes
Injuries can cause depression. Even after physical symptoms are treated and healed, depression might continue after. In the case that your doctor has diagnosed you with depression after a work-related injury, your lawyer might still be able to help you receive workers' comp after the injuries have healed. When there isn't a physical injury, there could be extra steps to take to prove that depression is because of work. You might need to get a doctor's official evaluation of whether the depression is because of work.
Complications With Receiving Workers' Comp
If at any previous point in your life, you received a depression or anxiety diagnosis, it could make receiving your workers' comp more difficult. Insurance companies will sometimes believe that depression is a pre-existing condition. The insurance company could not cover the costs if they believe the condition is an ongoing problem and not just strictly work-related.
Workers' compensation covers injuries and illnesses linked to work. If your workers' compensation includes a potential illness or disorder, compensation may vary because each state has its own workers' compensation system with special criteria. More and more employers recognize depression as being a valid reason for workers' comp. If your injury or illness drops into a murky area of workers' compensation, such as mental illness, speaking with a lawyer would be a way of figuring out if you might be eligible for benefits. A qualified worker's comp attorney will clarify how to apply the laws of your state to your particular case.
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