The Impact of Mental Health on Workers’ Compensation Injuries

Mental health plays a significant role in workers’ compensation (WC) injuries. In fact, 76% of U.S. workers report at least one symptom of a mental health condition, and one in four Americans knows someone affected by mental illness. These mental health challenges can complicate recovery and make returning to work more difficult.

First responders—such as EMTs and firefighters—are especially vulnerable, facing higher risks for PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse¹⁶. Workers dealing with mental health conditions are also less likely to return to work safely compared to those with musculoskeletal injuries³.

Mental Health and Work-Related Injuries

External stressors—such as high workload, poor lighting, or lack of flexibility—can intensify mental health issues, which in turn increase the risk of physical injuries². Those who do sustain WC injuries often experience moderate to severe psychological distress the longer they’re out of work⁴. Factors like identity loss, financial strain, and social disconnection contribute to this distress.

What Employees Can Do

Whether injured or not, employees should assess environmental stressors such as noise, lighting, and social dynamics. Simple tools—like earplugs or room dividers—can help reduce anxiety triggers⁷. Practicing relaxation techniques like box breathing can also help manage stress:

Box Breathing:

1. Place one hand on your chest, the other on your abdomen.
2. Inhale through your nose for two seconds, hold for two.
3. Exhale slowly through pursed lips for two seconds, hold again.
4. Repeat and gradually increase to four-second intervals.

Workers on WC benefits should advocate for both physical and mental health support. Breaking large tasks into smaller, manageable pieces can reduce feelings of overwhelm.

What Employers Can Do

Employers play a crucial role in supporting mental health, which can help reduce WC claims and improve employee satisfaction. The CDC outlines five key strategies⁵:

1. Protection from Harm – Prioritize safety and provide mental health resources.
2. Connection & Community – Encourage inclusivity and transparent communication.
3. Work-Life Harmony – Offer flexible scheduling and respect time off.
4. Sense of Belonging – Recognize contributions and create space for feedback.
5. Opportunity for Growth – Support professional development and celebrate achievements.

By fostering a healthy workplace culture, companies can reduce injury risk and support employee well-being. Encouraging self-advocacy, promoting inclusion, and providing room for growth can significantly reduce mental health–related barriers to returning to work.

At Athletico, our physical therapists specialize in helping injured workers return safely to work. Learn more by visiting our Workers’ Compensation webpage.

The Athletico blog is an educational resource written by Athletico employees. Athletico bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics outlined by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the individual author based on their expertise and experience. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.

References:
1. “Did You Know? Workers Comp Covers Mental Health”, U.S. Department of Labor Blog, May 3rd, 2024, https://blog.dol.gov/2024/05/03/did-you-know-workers-comp-covers-mental-health
2. Wadhwa S, Taouk Y, Spittal MJ, King T. Workplace Injury Compensation and Mental Health and Self-Harm Outcomes: A Systematic Review. New Solut. 2024 Aug;34(2):71-82. doi: 10.1177/10482911241254836. Epub 2024 May 20. PMID: 38767147; PMCID: PMC11331669.
3. Killip, S.C., MacDermid, J.C., Sinden, K.E. et al. Identifying predictors of return to work and the duration of time off work in first responders affected with musculoskeletal injuries or mental health issues. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 95, 723–735 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-021-01800-0
4. Collie A, Sheehan L, Lane TJ, Iles R. Psychological Distress in Workers’ Compensation Claimants: Prevalence, Predictors and Mental Health Service Use. J Occup Rehabil. 2020 Jun;30(2):194-202. doi: 10.1007/s10926-019-09862-1. PMID: 31646415.
5. “Workplace Mental Health & Well-Being”, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, May 28th, 2024 https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/priorities/workplace-well-being/index.html
6. “Mental Health and Workers’ Compensation Snapshot”, National Conference of State Legislatures, Oct 14th, 2022, https://www.ncsl.org/labor-and-employment/mental-health-and-workers-compensation-snapshot#:~:text=A%202021%20survey%20of%20nurses,of%20all%20workers%20compensation%20claims.
7. “Accommodations for Employees with Mental Health Conditions”, U.S. Department Of Labor, https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/program-areas/mental-health/maximizing-productivity-accommodations-for-employees-with-psychiatric-disabilities