Missouri law does allow workers’ compensation benefits for mental health conditions—but only in cases of extreme workplace conditions.
When people think of workers’ compensation, they often associate it with physical injuries like broken bones, back injuries, or repetitive stress disorders. However, what happens when a worker suffers from a psychological or emotional injury due to workplace conditions? In Missouri, workers’ compensation for mental health issues is a complex legal matter with strict eligibility requirements. Understanding how Missouri law treats mental health claims, what qualifies, and how to strengthen your case is essential for anyone facing work-related psychological trauma.
📞 Need help with a Missouri workers’ compensation claim? Contact the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann today for a FREE case evaluation.
Does Missouri Workers’ Compensation Cover Mental Health Issues?
Yes, but only under specific circumstances. Missouri workers’ compensation laws do recognize psychological injuries, but the requirements for proving these claims are stricter than for physical injuries. The Missouri Workers’ Compensation Act allows benefits for mental health conditions caused by work-related stress or trauma, but claimants must meet a high burden of proof.
Types of Mental Health Claims in Missouri Workers’ Compensation
- Physical-Mental Claims – When a physical injury leads to a psychological condition, such as developing depression or PTSD after a severe workplace accident.
- Mental-Physical Claims – When a psychological condition causes a physical illness, such as chronic stress leading to a heart attack.
- Mental-Mental Claims – When a psychological injury occurs without a physical injury, such as witnessing a traumatic workplace incident and developing PTSD. Missouri law rarely grants compensation for this type of claim.
What Mental Health Conditions May Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
While each case is unique, some common work-related psychological injuries that might be covered include:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Common among first responders, healthcare workers, and employees who witness or experience workplace violence.
- Depression & Anxiety Disorders – Often caused by high-stress jobs, workplace harassment, or extreme working conditions.
- Adjustment Disorders – Emotional distress triggered by sudden changes in the work environment or job-related trauma.
However, proving these conditions are directly caused by work can be challenging, and not all mental health issues will qualify.
When Is a Mental Health Claim Covered in Missouri?
For a mental health injury to be compensable in Missouri, the following must apply:
- A Direct Work-Related Cause Must Exist
- The mental health condition must have been directly caused by work conditions and not by external personal factors (RSMo § 287.120).
- For example, if an emergency medical technician develops PTSD after responding to a horrific accident, they may be eligible.
- A Qualified Medical Professional Must diagnose the Condition
- A licensed psychiatrist or psychologist must confirm the diagnosis.
- The mental health injury must require treatment, affect workability, and have a long-term impact.
- The Stress Must Be Extraordinary
- Everyday workplace stress is not enough. Missouri courts have ruled that mental health claims are only valid when the stress is greater than that experienced by the average worker in the same role (Treaster v. McCormick).
- For example, a police officer involved in a life-threatening shootout may have a claim, but an office worker stressed from looming deadlines likely will not.
Challenges of Proving a Mental Health Workers’ Comp Claim
Mental health claims face more scrutiny than physical injury claims in Missouri. Some key challenges include:
- Employers and Insurers Disputing the Cause
- Insurance companies frequently deny claims, arguing that the worker’s mental health issues were pre-existing or caused by personal life problems.
- Lack of Physical Evidence
- Unlike a broken bone that appears on an X-ray, psychological injuries rely on medical evaluations and subjective reports.
- Missouri’s High Burden of Proof
- Missouri law requires “clear and convincing evidence” that the condition is work-related and not caused by external stressors (RSMo § 287.067).
Due to these difficulties, it is strongly recommended that injured workers consult an experienced Missouri workers’ compensation attorney before filing a claim.
Workers at Higher Risk for Mental Health Injuries
Some professions have a higher likelihood of job-related mental health issues, including:
- First Responders (police officers, firefighters, EMTs) – Constant exposure to traumatic events increases the risk of PTSD and anxiety.
- Healthcare Workers – High stress, the emotional toll of patient care, and long hours contribute to burnout, depression, and anxiety disorders.
- Factory & Warehouse Workers – Harsh working conditions, long shifts, and repetitive tasks can lead to mental fatigue and stress-related disorders.
- Teachers & Social Workers – Dealing with violent or troubled students, excessive workloads, and lack of support can result in stress-related claims.
How to Strengthen Your Workers’ Comp Claim for Mental Health in Missouri
If you believe you have a valid work-related psychological injury, follow these steps to improve your claim’s success:
- Seek Immediate Medical Treatment
- Visit a licensed psychiatrist, psychologist, or mental health professional.
- Make sure your diagnosis is well-documented and includes work-related causes.
- Report the Injury to Your Employer ASAP
- Missouri law requires that injuries (including mental health conditions) be reported within 30 days (RSMo § 287.420).
- Gather Supporting Evidence
- Keep detailed records of workplace incidents, stressors, and medical treatments.
- Obtain witness statements if applicable.
- Consult a Workers’ Comp Attorney
- An experienced Missouri workers’ compensation lawyer can help navigate claim denials, appeals, and negotiations.
What Benefits Can You Receive for a Mental Health Workers’ Comp Claim?
If approved, you may be entitled to:
- Medical treatment coverage (therapy, medication, psychiatric care)
- Temporary disability benefits (if unable to work)
- Permanent disability benefits (for severe cases)
However, many claims are initially denied, and legal action may be necessary.
Should You File a Mental Health Workers’ Comp Claim in Missouri?
Missouri law does allow workers’ compensation benefits for mental health conditions—but only in cases where extreme workplace conditions directly cause psychological harm. If you are suffering from PTSD, anxiety, depression, or another work-related mental health issue, you may qualify for benefits, but proving eligibility is challenging.
Because these claims face high denial rates, consulting with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney is often the best course of action. If your claim has been denied or disputed, don’t give up—legal help is available.
Contact The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann Today
📞 Need help with a Missouri workers’ compensation claim? Contact the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann today for a FREE case evaluation.