While you might associate it mainly with war veterans, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be experienced by people from all walks of life. People with PTSD experienced or witnessed a traumatic event and now harbor anxiety or have flashbacks because of it. If you’ve been diagnosed with this disorder and are wondering if you are eligible for workers’ compensation, consult the following guide.

How Might PTSD Affect Someone on the Job?

When dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, you may experience a wide range of physical and mental symptoms, which can make it hard to continue working as usual. For example, some people experience headaches, fatigue, diarrhea, or vomiting, and others may develop high blood pressure and ulcers.

If you’re having nightmares at home, you may be too tired to fulfill your potential on the job or interrupted at work by unsettling flashbacks. Some people with PTSD will experience mood changes, such as depression, apathy, or even anger. As a result, they might display self-destructive, violent, or obsessive-compulsive behavior. Whether you have to talk to clients on the phone, serve customers food, or simply collaborate with other employees, all of these symptoms can affect your ability to do your job.

Does Workers’ Compensation Cover PTSD?

Workers’ compensation serves to help employees who developed a health issue or experienced an injury as a direct result of their job, such as if you broke a bone while operating a forklift or after slipping on a spill at work. Therefore, for your PTSD to be covered by workers’ compensation, the traumatic event must have happened while you were on the job or working “within the scope of employment,” such as going to pick up something for your boss.

If you were diagnosed with PTSD and believe you deserve workers’ compensation, turn to Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. They serve clients in the Lake St. Louis, MO, area and have over 75 years of combined experience. With their knowledge and track record, you can rest assured your rights will be protected. To learn more about their other practice areas, such as DWI and personal injury, visit their website, or call (636) 561-5599 to schedule a free consultation.