What is classified as a "psychological injury" in workers' compensation?

A "psychological injury" in the context of workers' compensation refers specifically to mental health conditions that arise as a direct result of events or stressors encountered in the workplace. This can include conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder that develop following traumatic or stressful incidents at work, such as accidents, harassment, or the death of a coworker.

Recognizing psychological injuries is important because they can significantly impact an employee's ability to perform their job and overall well-being, just as physical injuries can. Workers' compensation recognizes the legitimate claims made for psychological injuries, acknowledging that mental health is a critical component of an individual's ability to work and live fully.

Other options do not accurately fit the definition of a psychological injury. Physical injuries requiring rehabilitation are focused on bodily harm rather than mental health. Chronic illnesses not related to work cannot be classified as psychological injuries in this context since they do not stem from workplace factors. Temporary stress due to workload might not rise to the severity of a recognized psychological injury and may not qualify for workers' compensation unless it leads to a more serious condition.