If you experience severe to extreme levels of stress because of your job in Boston and are now suffering from a physical illness or mental health condition that you believe is related, you may be eligible for financial compensation. The attorneys at Barry D. Lang, M.D. & Associates can help you understand your rights and take the appropriate legal action based on an in-depth case review. Contact us today.
How Can a Boston Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help?
When you get help from a workers’ compensation lawyer in Boston, he or she can listen to your story and let you know if you have grounds to file a workers’ compensation claim or injury lawsuit for an illness caused by job stress. These are often difficult cases to win, as they may not be as black and white as claims involving a physical injury or a specific workplace accident. Job stress is more difficult to prove and quantify.
Even though stress can have a very real effect on a worker’s health and life, it is largely intangible. A lawyer can help you build the strongest claim possible by gathering what evidence is available, such as medical expert testimony, witness statements and your medical records. Your lawyer will help you fight for maximum financial compensation for your illness while you focus on recovering.
What Is Job Stress and What Are Common Causes?
Job stress refers to how the body and mind react to a situation that causes a worker to feel under pressure or threatened. Stress can occur when a worker feels out of control of their work-life balance, such as an employee who is overworked. It can also stem from job insecurity, such as the threat of being laid off. Examples of common job stressors include:
- Long hours
- Heavy workload
- High-intensity job
- Frequent traumatic or emergency situations
- Disheartening work
- Job insecurity
- Harassment or discrimination
- Conflicts with coworkers or bosses
Some of the careers with the highest reported levels of job stress are the military, police force, firefighters, airline pilots and paramedics. However, job stress can impact workers in virtually any job and sector in Boston.
Common Illnesses and Conditions Caused by Job Stress
If job stress is not relieved or managed, the constant state of stress can negatively affect the worker’s physical, mental and emotional health. Consistent stress for a prolonged period is proven to cause or contribute to a variety of illnesses, including:
- Accelerated aging and premature death
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Asthma
- Cardiovascular disease
- Chronic fatigue
- Diabetes
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Headaches or migraines
- Insomnia or trouble sleeping
- Musculoskeletal conditions
- Obesity
Job stress can also result in mental or psychological health disorders, such as:
- Burnout
- Chronic anxiety
- Depression
- Panic attacks
- Substance use disorders
- Suicidal thoughts or tendencies
Job stress can exacerbate virtually any health condition that a worker already has. It can also cause new conditions – especially mental health disorders. If you have been diagnosed with an illness due to job stress, take steps to change your life for the better. Start by pursuing financial compensation for your illness.
Can You File a Claim for Illnesses Caused by Job Stress in Massachusetts?
Yes. Workers’ compensation benefits are not only restricted to physical injuries; they are also available for job-related illnesses and diseases. In some cases, workers can receive compensation for mental and emotional disabilities, including post-traumatic stress disorder, if a work-related incident was the contributing cause.
To receive workers’ comp for a psychiatric condition in Massachusetts, you will need to undergo an evaluation by a medical professional. If you are pursuing compensation for a physical illness that has already been diagnosed, you can use your medical records as proof during a workers’ comp claim.
Speak to a Job Stress Illness Attorney in Boston Today
Job stress can significantly impact a worker in more ways than one. If you are suffering from a physical or mental illness connected to job stress, don’t hesitate to contact Barry D. Lang, M.D. & Associates to discuss your rights. You may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits or a personal injury lawsuit if your employer was negligent in causing or failing to prevent your job stress. Discuss your case in more detail during a free consultation. Call 1-877-LAW-DOCS today.