Can You Get Workers’ Comp for Stress or Anxiety in Missouri?

Can You Claim Workers’ Comp for Stress or Anxiety in Missouri?

The short answer is yes, but it’s challenging. Missouri workers’ compensation laws allow claims for mental health conditions such as stress, anxiety, and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), but only under specific circumstances.

According to RSMo 287.120, workers’ compensation covers “injuries or occupational diseases” arising from and during employment. However, Missouri law distinguishes between (Missouri Workers’ Compensation Law – RSMo 287.120):

• Physical-Mental Injuries: Mental health conditions caused by a physical injury (e.g., anxiety after a severe back injury).
• Mental-Mental Injuries: Mental health conditions without a physical injury (e.g., PTSD from witnessing a traumatic event at work).

When Does Missouri Workers’ Comp Cover Stress or Anxiety?

Under Missouri law, stress or anxiety claims must meet these requirements:

1. The Condition Must Be Work-Related

The stress or anxiety must result directly from your job duties or a workplace event. Common qualifying scenarios include:

• Witnessing or being involved in a traumatic workplace accident.
• Experiencing harassment or extreme workplace violence.
• Developing PTSD from a life-threatening work incident (e.g., armed robbery for retail workers).

2. The Injury Must Be Medically Diagnosed

You must have a formal diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, stating that your condition is a direct result of your work. (Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation)

When Is Stress or Anxiety Not Covered Under Missouri Workers’ Comp?

Missouri law generally excludes workers’ comp claims for routine job stress or regular workplace conflicts, such as:

• Stress from meeting deadlines or handling a heavy workload.
• Disagreements with supervisors or coworkers.
• Poor performance reviews or demotions.

Exception: If the stress leads to a diagnosable mental health condition (e.g., severe anxiety disorder) and can be directly linked to a traumatic work event, you may still qualify for benefits. (Missouri Workers’ Compensation Law – RSMo 287.020)

What Workers’ Comp Benefits Can You Receive for Stress or Anxiety in Missouri?

1. Medical Expenses:

• Coverage for therapy, counseling, medications, and hospitalizations.
• Coverage for psychological evaluations and diagnostic tests.

2. Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits:

• Paid if your doctor advises you not to work due to your mental health condition.
• Calculated at two-thirds of your average weekly wage (AWW).

3. Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) or Permanent Total Disability (PTD):

• Paid if your mental health condition causes lasting impairments.

4. Vocational Rehabilitation:

• Training for a new job if you cannot return to your previous position due to your condition.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim for Stress or Anxiety in Missouri?

• You must report your condition to your employer within 30 days of discovering it.
• You must file a formal workers’ comp claim within 2 years from the date of diagnosis or the last payment of benefits.

Can You Be Fired for Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim for Stress or Anxiety?

No. Missouri law prohibits employers from retaliating against workers for filing a legitimate workers’ compensation claim. If you are terminated, demoted, or harassed for filing a claim, you may have grounds for a separate retaliation lawsuit under RSMo 287.780. (Missouri Revised Statutes Section 287.780 – Workers’ Comp Retaliation)

Frequently Asked Questions

Protect Your Rights – Don’t Face Stress or Anxiety Alone

Workers’ compensation for stress or anxiety is possible in Missouri, but it requires strong medical evidence and a clear link to your job. Missouri courts recognize PTSD and severe anxiety as valid claims, especially when tied to workplace trauma or extraordinary conditions.