Work can be stressful, but when stress becomes too much, it can lead to psychological injuries. In Maryland, employees have the right to file claims for work-induced stress or mental health issues. Understanding the nuances of these claims is essential to protecting your rights.
What qualifies as a psychological injury?
Psychological injuries refer to mental health conditions caused or exacerbated by workplace conditions. These can include anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and stress-related disorders.
Proving a work-induced psychological injury
To claim a psychological injury, you must prove your work environment caused your mental health condition. This typically involves a medical diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional.
You must also provide documentation or testimony showing how your work contributed to your psychological injury. Provide a clear timeline connecting your mental health issues to specific work-related events or conditions.
Common work-related stressors
Certain conditions and events in the workplace are more likely to cause significant stress. Some conditions include high-pressure job demands, workplace harassment, or bullying. You may also be able to file a claim for traumatic incidents witnessed or experienced at work, and lack of support from management or colleagues.
Filing a claim
If you believe you have a valid claim for a work-induced psychological injury, follow these steps:
- Report the injury: Inform your employer about your mental health issues and how they relate to your work.
- Seek medical treatment: Get a formal diagnosis and treatment plan from a mental health professional.
- Document everything: Keep records of all communications, medical visits, and any relevant incidents at work.
- File a claim: Submit your claim through Maryland’s workers’ compensation system.
Protecting your mental health and understanding your rights
Psychological injury claims can be more challenging to prove than physical injuries. Although the process can be complex, you can navigate the system effectively. Take your mental health seriously and seek the help you need if workplace stress becomes overwhelming.