In today’s fast-paced work environment, job-related stress is becoming increasingly common and is often overlooked when discussing Workers’ Compensation claims. Like physical injuries, mental stressors can impact an employee’s ability to perform effectively and lead to significant complications in their daily lives.
Employees in Oklahoma may wonder whether their job stress qualifies for Workers’ Compensation benefits. The Tulsa Workers’ Compensation Attorneys at The Armstrong Law Firm, PLC, delve into job-related stress and the factors governing Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation benefits.
What Is Job-Related Stress?
The CDC National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) says, “Job stress can be defined as the harmful physical and emotional responses that occur when the requirements of the job do not match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker.”
The NIOSH cites studies that report the following:
- One-fourth of employees view their jobs as the number one stressor in their lives. – Northwestern National Life
- Three-fourths of employees believe the worker has more on-the-job stress than a generation ago. – Princeton Survey Research Associates
- Problems at work are more strongly associated with health complaints than any other life stressor – more so than financial problems or family problems. – St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Co.
Job-related stress arises from various factors, including heavy workloads, tight deadlines, complicated relationships with coworkers or management, and lack of support or resources. According to the American Psychological Association, job stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and even physical health issues like heart disease and hypertension.
In Oklahoma, as in many states, the implications of job stress on Workers’ Compensation claims are complex and often misunderstood.
Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation and Job Stress
Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation law does offer some coverage for mental health-related conditions, but there are important stipulations. According to 85A OK Stat § 13 (2024), Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation also covers psychological conditions, including stress, anxiety, and depression, if they can be linked to job-related physical injuries.
Factors Governing Benefits for Job-Related Stress
- Documented Evidence: Employees seeking Workers’ Compensation benefits for job stress must provide substantial evidence demonstrating that their stress is directly tied to work-related physical injuries. Documentation can include medical records, therapy notes, and witness statements from colleagues or supervisors. The burden of proof lies primarily with the employee, making sufficient documentation crucial to building a successful case.
- Severity of Stress: Not all job stress qualifies for Workers’ Compensation. The law requires that the stress be severe enough to constitute a mental health condition, such as anxiety disorders, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Minor stressors, such as workload pressures, are typically insufficient to result in compensation.
- Legal Precedents: Legal precedents can shape how job stress claims are treated in Oklahoma. For example, the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled that conditions arising from extreme workplace stress may be compensable if they can be conclusively linked to specific job-related injuries.
The Armstrong Law Firm: Your Advocate for Workers’ Compensation Claims
At the Armstrong Law Firm, PLC, founded in 1983, we appreciate the complexities of Workers’ Compensation claims, including those involving job stress. Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, we have consistently focused on providing personal attention to our clients. We treat each individual like family, valuing the relationships we build in our community and our commitment to representing the common worker, not the interests of insurance companies.
Our experienced attorneys bring diverse backgrounds and knowledge to each case, ensuring we can effectively handle all types of Workers’ Compensation claims, including those related to job stress. Our firm has successfully obtained millions of dollars in settlements, court awards, and jury verdicts for our clients throughout Northeast Oklahoma, securing the compensation they deserve.
Tulsa Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
Job-related stress is a significant concern for many employees, and understanding your rights under Workers’ Compensation law is vital. While some workers in Oklahoma may qualify for benefits due to job-related stress, navigating the legal complexities can be challenging. With our dedicated and knowledgeable team at the Armstrong Law Firm, we are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you are experiencing job-related stress and think you may have a claim, do not hesitate to contact our office. We are ready to listen and provide the support you need to overcome these challenging circumstances. Your well-being is our priority, and together, we can work towards a solution that helps you reclaim your peace of mind and livelihood.