If you become hurt while working, you could struggle with a number of physical and financial difficulties. From lost wages and hospital bills to immobilization and severe pain, these challenges can make daily life very hard. However, you should also focus on your mental health in the wake of a workplace accident.
Sadly, data shows that those who suffer serious injuries at work become especially likely to face mental health issues.
Data on injured workers and mental health
A study that appears on the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s site sheds light on mental health challenges that many people struggle with following a workplace accident. This study analyzed data collected from U.S. workers between 2004 and 2016. Among those who suffered occupational injuries, non-occupational injuries and no injuries, the prevalence of psychological distress was highest among those who sustained occupational injuries. In addition, serious psychological distress occurred most often in workers who suffered head and neck injuries.
Workplace injuries can impact mental health in different ways
Following a job-related injury, a worker could experience high levels of anxiety as a result of medical expenses, costs due to rehabilitation, lost wages, reduced hours at work and concerns about the future of their career. Sometimes, the mental toll of a workplace accident can lead to depression, interfere with sleep and disrupt other aspects of life.
If you suffered a job-related injury and face mental hurdles, financial problems or physical setbacks, you should immediately try to find out if you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.