Mental health injuries caused by workplace stress are real, and in many cases, they are compensable under California law. However, psychiatric injury California workers’ comp claims are treated differently than physical injury claims and are often more difficult to prove. Understanding these legal standards is essential to protecting your right to benefits.

Many injured workers seek guidance from a trusted worker compensation law firm to navigate the added scrutiny these claims face.

What Is a Psychiatric Injury Under California Workers’ Compensation?

A psychiatric injury refers to a mental health condition that arises out of work-related stress or trauma. Common examples include:

To succeed in a psychiatric injury California workers’ comp case, the employee must meet specific legal requirements beyond those applied to physical injuries.

The “Predominant Cause” Legal Standard

One of the most important rules governing psychiatric claims is the predominant cause requirement. This means:

  • Work-related stress must account for more than 50% of the psychiatric conditions
  • Non-work-related stressors cannot be the primary cause

Insurance companies frequently argue that personal factors outweigh job-related stress. This is why working with a workers’ compensation lawyer is critical when building your claim.

The Six-Month Employment Rule

In most cases, California law requires employees to work for an employer for at least six months before a psychiatric injury claim is compensable. However, there are key exceptions, including:

  • Sudden or extraordinary work-related events
  • Violent incidents
  • Traumatic accidents or emergencies

A knowledgeable workers’ comp attorney or work injury law firm can determine whether your case qualifies for an exception.

Evidence Needed to Support a Psychiatric Injury Claim

Strong documentation is essential for these cases. Supporting evidence may include:

  • Medical evaluations from licensed mental health professionals
  • Qualified medical evaluator (QME)reports
  • Employment records demonstrating workload, discipline, or harassment
  • Witness statements from coworkers or supervisors
  • Emails, HR complaints, or incident reports

Workers pursuing a workers’ compensation claim are often better protected when represented by experienced counsel.

Emergency responders at a traumatic work-related incident are causing psychological stress

Why These Claims Are Often Challenged

Psychiatric injury claims are frequently denied due to allegations that:

  • The stress was a normal part of the job
  • Personal issues caused the condition
  • Medical evidence is insufficient

An experienced workers’ comp attorney can challenge these defenses and advocate for fair treatment.

Protect Your Mental Health and Your Future

Psychiatric injuries can have long-lasting effects on your health and livelihood. Successfully pursuing a psychiatric injury California workers’ comp claim requires clear medical evidence and knowledgeable legal support.

The Law Offices of Harley Merritt has extensive experience representing injured workers across Colusa, Glenn, Butte County, and Yuba City. If workplace stress has impacted your mental well-being, contact us today for a free consultation and trusted legal guidance.