Working in a nursing home is no easy task. From lifting patients to providing compassionate care, you face unique challenges that test your physical and emotional limits daily. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 46% of health workers – including nursing home workers – experienced anxiety, depression and burnout in 2022.
This constant stress and fatigue can take a toll, making it harder to stay focused and increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Worse, poor mental health can make the process of claiming workers’ compensation for a physical injury much more complex.
How can it complicate your claim?
Proving that a mental health condition is work-related can be challenging, especially if you work in a nursing home. Unlike physical injuries, which often happen because of a single incident like a fall or an accident, mental health issues can develop slowly over time due to ongoing stress, heavy workloads or workplace harassment. This makes it harder to name one clear cause. Moreover, mental health conditions are often subjective and harder to quantify, which can lead to skepticism from employers and insurers.
Some might already have mental health conditions that get worse and lead to physical injuries because of their job. Employers and insurance companies might argue that these conditions or injuries are due to preexisting factors, not work-related stress. This can complicate the claim since you have to prove that your job significantly worsened your condition or led to your injury.
How can you navigate this legal process?
Know your rights and benefits under New Jersey’s workers’ compensation laws, like medical treatment and disability benefits. Make sure your employer gives you the right forms and information.
Receiving a comprehensive medical evaluation from a health care provider approved by your employer or their insurance carrier is also crucial. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments and symptoms, including those related to your mental health. This is key to supporting your claim.
Lastly, consider consulting with an attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation. They can help navigate the complexities of your claim, especially if it involves preexisting conditions or mental health issues.
Your health and well-being matter
You deserve protection and support, especially when dealing with work-related mental health issues. Make sure you get the care and compensation you deserve.