What is a Mental Injury?

Different states may have slightly varying definitions and guidelines regarding mental health injuries. However, they typically align with similar principles across jurisdictions. In the context of WorkSafe Victoria, a mental health injury refers to a psychological injury or illness that is recognised as a compensable condition under the workers' compensation system. This means that if a worker in Victoria develops a mental health condition as a result of their work, they may be eligible to make a claim for compensation.

WorkSafe Victoria recognises several types of mental health injuries that can be compensable, including but not limited to:

In Victoria, workers may be eligible to make a workers' compensation claim for a mental injury if they have developed a diagnosed mental health condition due to their work. This could include conditions such as:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): If an employee experiences a traumatic event at work, such as witnessing a serious accident or being a victim of workplace violence, they may develop PTSD.

• Anxiety Disorders: These can arise from chronic stress, workplace harassment or bullying, or other work-related factors that cause significant distress.

• Depression: Prolonged exposure to a negative work environment, job insecurity, or other work-related stressors can lead to depression.

• Acute Stress Reaction: This can occur due to a sudden and unexpected event at work that causes extreme stress and anxiety.

To make a claim for a mental injury with WorkSafe Victoria, the following criteria generally need to be met:

• The mental injury must be a result of the worker's employment.

• It must be a diagnosable mental health condition.

• It must have arisen out of or during the worker's employment.

Workers who believe they have developed a mental health injury due to work-related factors should seek medical attention and consider filing a claim with WorkSafe Victoria. This can provide access to support services, treatment, and compensation to aid in their recovery and return to work if possible. It's important for workers to consult with their employer, medical professionals, or legal advisors to understand their rights and the process of making a claim for a mental health injury.

The main source for this article is WorkSafe Victoria. For the most current and accurate information, please refer to your relevant worker’s compensation body.