Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological injuries
It is not uncommon for an injured worker to end up with depression or post traumatic stress. If there is no physical injury that led to the mental problem, it is very difficult to win a case. In other words, if you work long hours and your boss yells at you, a workers' compensation claim for depression is probably going no where.
On the other hand, if you end up depressed because of back pain from a work related injury, that is an additional part of your case. Same things holds true if you suffer from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
An example of that would be if you were in a forklift on the job and got your leg crushed against a wall. You would have a work injury case for the leg injury. If it led to PTSD, which is an anxiety disorder, then you would be eligible for medical treatment for that as well, payment for any time authorized off of work and compensation for the permanent nature of that problem.
People with PTSD have persistent frightening thoughts and memories of their ordeal and feel emotionally numb, especially with people they were once close to. They may experience sleep problems, feel detached or numb, or be easily startled. Bottom line is that it's no joke.
Unfortunately many clients are afraid to speak up about their problems which is understandable. Remember though that once your case is settled there is nothing we can do for you. While your case is active we can get you help.
We are workers' compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
