Federal Workers’ Compensation Attorney for Mental Health Concerns
Lawyer Helping Federal Employees Throughout the U.S. Address Issues Related to Mental Stress and Anxiety
Employees working for the federal government are provided with certain benefits, including workers’ compensation in situations where they suffer on-the-job injuries or health conditions related to the work they perform. While workers’ compensation cases often address injuries that occur in workplace accidents or physical conditions related to the work being performed, employees may not realize that mental health concerns may also be addressed.
Workers’ compensation benefits may be crucial for federal employees who are experiencing stress and anxiety related to their jobs. As cutbacks are made to the federal government, thousands of workers have been terminated, and others may face concerns about their job security. Those who are still working may experience stress due to increased workloads, and they may also be dealing with concerns about whether they will be required to relocate or be required to complete in-person work rather than working remotely.
Many federal workers are veterans who may already be dealing with PTSD or related concerns, and higher levels of stress may exacerbate their symptoms. Employees will need to understand the options that are available to ensure that they receive the proper treatment, as well as the disability benefits that may be available if they will be unable to continue working as required.
The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C. provides legal representation for federal employees, ensuring that their rights are protected as they deal with work-related illnesses, injuries, or mental health concerns. We can help workers file claims with the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), and we can provide guidance on how to respond if claims are denied. We can also help employees who will be unable to continue working due to mental health issues or other conditions determine when they may qualify for OPM disability retirement.
When Do Mental Health Conditions Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
Federal employees can receive workers’ compensation benefits based on any work-related illnesses and health conditions, including mental health issues. However, it can sometimes be difficult to prove that mental health concerns are related to a person’s work. When filing a workers’ compensation claim with OWCP, an employee may need to demonstrate that issues such as anxiety or stress are directly related to the work they have performed, the conditions in the workplace, or events related to their employment.
The employee will have the burden of proof to show that their condition is work-related. In their claim, they may provide evidence such as medical records showing that they have been diagnosed with a mental condition or statements from medical providers who believe that a condition is related to the person’s work. Evidence establishing causation may also be provided, such as records showing that changes in the workplace have drastically increased an employee’s workload and led to increased levels of stress.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Stress and Anxiety
A federal employee who files a workers’ compensation claim may be eligible for multiple types of benefits. All medical and mental health care for work-related conditions should be fully covered, including psychological therapy, treatment from a psychiatrist, and medications to address mood disorders or other mental health issues.
Workers may also qualify for disability benefits if anxiety, depression, panic attacks, substance abuse disorders, or other stress-related conditions prevent them from working. Partial disability benefits may be available for employees who will only be able to return to work in a limited capacity, and they will pay two thirds (66.67 percent) of the difference between their current monthly pay and their wage-earning capacity prior to the beginning of their partial disability. Total disability benefits may be paid if a person is completely unable to return to work, and these benefits will provide two thirds (66.67 percent) of their monthly pay.
Contact Our Federal Employee Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Anxiety and Stress
When you are dealing with mental health issues related to your job, it is important to understand that there are benefits available to you. At The Devadoss Law Firm, P.L.L.C., we can work with you to file a workers’ compensation claim, demonstrate that your condition is directly related to your work, and respond to any attempts to deny the benefits you need. To get the help you need in this situation, contact us at 866-460-0994 and schedule a free consultation.