If you have suffered bodily or mental harm on the job, consulting with a Workers’ Compensation attorney may be in your best interest. It can be challenging to demonstrate that “invisible” ailments such as PTSD are work-related despite being just as real and severe as physical ones. 

If you developed PTSD after experiencing a terrible physical injury on the job, you may be eligible for benefits under your company’s Workers’ Compensation policy. You will need to show that your PTSD was caused by the job accident to receive compensation.

Before claiming Workers’ Compensation benefits, speaking with an attorney specializing in such cases is in your best interest. It might be difficult to navigate a claim involving PTSD without the assistance of personal injury lawyers in Boston.

Helping Someone Deal with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

It is natural to want to facilitate your loved one’s recovery from this traumatic experience. Here are some ways you may help your loved one deal with the illness:

  • Plan enjoyable outings, such as family activities or date nights, and be a good listener by simply listening without pushing for revelations or solutions without interrupting. 
  • Learn as much as possible about PTSD from credible sources, such as the doctor treating your loved one. 
  • Do not be a broken record about your willingness to hear them out. If your loved one needs to take a break, do not force them to keep working; instead, schedule some time to talk about the accident and its aftermath. 
  • Find a quiet, relaxing place where you will not be interrupted too often. 
  • You should help your loved one get effective talk therapy or other PTSD treatment with a therapist who specializes in PTSD, but you should also be there for any impromptu conversations that may arise. 
  • Some people with PTSD may experience suicidal thoughts, so it is important to take any talk of suicide seriously and get a referral to a therapist if necessary. 
  • Get help immediately if a loved one discusses doing this or makes threats. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, dial 911 and explain the situation. Then, remove any guns or other weapons from the home. 
  • You should also avoid keeping drugs or alcohol in the house because of potential abuse.

You Should Get Your Family Some Help

The rest of the family needs your attention, too. Children, parents, and other loved ones might be affected by witnessing a loved one’s PTSD symptoms. Some people with PTSD can benefit from talking to a therapist about their experiences. Do not forget about self-care, either. Your family member may be eligible for workers’ compensation if their PTSD was caused by their job.