There has been a steady rise in the number of psychological/psychiatric injury claims within Canada, with around 30% of short- and long-term disability claims and are rated one of the top three drivers of such claims by more than 80% of Canadian employers.
Psychological/psychiatric injuries are complex and can have a substantial impact on both the worker and their employer's business if not managed carefully.
WorkCover's core objective when managing psychological/psychiatric injury claims is to make fair decisions as soon as possible to minimise disruption to the worker's life and their workplace. As part of the decision-making process, WorkCover must apply particular criteria and exclusions (as outlined in the British Columbia's Workers' Compensation Act 1996 for example) when assessing psychological /psychiatric injury claims.
In the process, it is important to ensure consistent and regular communication occurs between the injured worker, their employer and treating doctors/allied health professionals to ensure all parties understand the determination process and the information required to assess a claim.
All parties to a psychological/psychiatric injury claim have a duty of care to communicate openly and honestly so that the injured worker can achieve a safe and early return to work. The best thing a worker can do for their health and family is to minimize their time off work.
Research from the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians shows being off work for long periods of time can reduce the likelihood of a worker ever returning to work.
Being in the workplace also helps a worker not to feel isolated from their colleagues, which can make them feel even worse. If a worker is away from work, the best thing an employer can do is stay in touch and provide support and understanding to the worker.
WorkSafe claims management statistics show that injured workers feel more valued and reassured about job security if their employer is engaged and takes a positive approach to their rehabilitation.