Every Mind Matters: Understanding How You Can Make A Personal Injury Claim For Mental Health And Psychiatric Damage
Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it often gets overlooked. Even though people are starting to recognise its importance, understanding mental health issues and psychiatric damage is not fully understood. Many are unaware they can get compensation for mental health problems caused by accidents or traumatic events. However, the experienced solicitors at Hodge Jones & Allen are here to help.
What Constitutes Mental Health and Psychiatric Damage?
Generally, there is not much difference between mental stress and psychiatric injuries. The key difference is that psychiatric injury refers to harmful reactions specifically caused by traumatic events. Mental health and psychiatric damage include various conditions, including but not limited to:
- Depression.
- Anxiety disorders.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD).
- Panic attacks.
These conditions can result from incidents like car accidents, workplace injuries, medical negligence, or any event causing significant psychological trauma. You can receive compensation for mental health issues in two main ways:
- By claiming for both physical and psychological injuries.
- By claiming for psychological injury after an accident, even if you did not suffer any physical injury.
It is important to seek clarity before you claim, and our experienced team at Hodge Jones & Allen is on hand to advise you on whether psychiatric injury is something that we can assist you with.
Steps to Making a Personal Injury Claim for Mental Health and Psychiatric Damage
1. Seek professional help:
- Diagnosis and treatment. It is crucial to get a formal diagnosis from a mental health professional. They can document your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
- Medical records. Keep detailed records of all consultations, treatments, and prescribed medications. This documentation will be vital for your claim.
2. Consult a personal injury lawyer
- Speak to one of our lawyers who specialises in personal injury claims. They can provide expert advice on the strength of your case and guide you through the processes. Many lawyers offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and potential next steps.
3. Gather evidence
- Incident reports. Collect any reports related to the incident that caused your mental health issues, such as accident reports.
- Personal diary. Maintain a diary detailing your emotional and psychological state following the incident. This can serve as personal evidence of your suffering.
4. File the claim
- Your personal injury lawyer at Hodge Jones & Allen will help you file the claim, which includes submitting necessary documents and evidence to support your case.
- Often, these cases are settled out of court. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. If necessary, they will represent you in court.
5. Understand the compensation
- General damages. This is compensation for your pain and suffering.
- Special damages. This includes reimbursement for medical expenses, therapy costs, and any loss of earnings due to inability to work.
Every mind matters, and acknowledging mental health and psychiatric damage in Personal Injury claims shows understanding and compassion. If you or someone you know is dealing with mental health issues from an incident, or simply want to clarify on your injuries, remember that help is available and you have the right to seek compensation. Speak to a member of our Personal Injury team who can point you in the right direction. Call now on 0808 271 9413 or request a call back.