The Psychological Impact of a Workers Comp Injury Can Be Devastating

Once injured, workers tend to perceive the worst. They believe they will never have the capacity to work again and fear the resulting financial burden. In cases where workers have experienced severe emotional trauma at the workplace (i.e., a bank teller who is robbed at gunpoint or an injured construction worker who witnesses a co-worker's serious or mortal injury), returning to work can present a challenge that is as much psychological as it is physical. Imagine the emotional impact of an airline incident on the flight attendants. Violent crimes or accidents are not the only cause of psychological distress. Removed from the familiar day-to-day interaction with management and co-workers, it is easy to develop a fear of the unknown. Prolonged pain, loss of function and depression can become psychological barriers to recovery. In addition, many workers complain that they are made to feel like criminals-fraudsters-for accepting payment while staying at home. Employers often show support at the time of the injury, but strong communication during the entire recovery process has an equally important impact on the injured worker's ability to fend off the psychological tailspin. Such strategies can promote the worker's mental and emotional recovery: 1-Show sincere concern. Look for ways to keep injured workers connected. A copy of the latest company newsletter, a brief phone call to confirm that all is going well with recovery or a simple e-mail expressing well wishes can do wonders to alleviate workers' worries. 2-Avoid disputes. Reconsider your point of view as the employer when denying a specific medical treatment or physician, arguing questionable average weekly wages, or litigating a minor issue. Tangling in lengthy disputes can be distracting and may keep the employee from returning. 3-Keep an eye open for opportunities to rebuild communication or end minor disputes with your injured workers and the medical and legal professionals helping them. Gordon R. Butler, national authority/consultant on employability & wage capacity in workers comp, liability, PIP and LTD Claims. can be reached at 321-377-1164 (cell) or email [email protected] www.gbutlerconsult.com WC Calculator www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/calculator.php TD Calculator www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/transitional-duty-cost-calculator.php WC 101 www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/workers_comp.php Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws are different. Consult with your corporate legal counsel before implementing any cost containment programs. ©2008 Amaxx Risk Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved under International Copyright Law. For reprint permission contact In[email protected]