When you're faced with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), getting through every day can become a testament to your strength and resilience. But in facing these challenges, it's important to remember that you’re not alone. If your PTSD results from an action or incident caused by someone else, it's only right that you seek the compensation you deserve.

Switalskis understands the impact PTSD can have on your life. Not only are there emotional and psychological impacts, but there can also be significant financial burdens due to a need for therapy, medication, and time off work. Our mission is to offer more than just legal support. We're here to provide a pillar of strength, understanding, and guidance in your time of need. With us by your side, navigating the complexities of PTSD compensation becomes less daunting.

You might also suffer from PTSD if you helped somebody injured in catastrophic circumstances or if you witnessed a traumatic event that injured or killed a loved one.

PTSD is more than just a clinical diagnosis; it's a challenge that deeply affects the lives of those suffering from it. Beyond the primary emotional and psychological repercussions, some impacts can often warrant compensation. Here's a closer look at the complexities of PTSD and what one might be entitled to claim for:

Reliving traumatic memories

One of the most profound elements of PTSD is being forced to relive traumatic events, an experience that can manifest as flashbacks and nightmares. Flashbacks are not mere memories but intense, often distressing replays that blur the lines between past and present, potentially affecting daily routines and sleep patterns.

Heightened emotional responses

The emotional toll of PTSD is vast. It might include experiencing severe anxiety, living in a state of heightened alertness, or feeling intense emotions that can disrupt daily life and lead to missed work days, the need for therapy, or medication to manage symptoms.

Behavioural and social impacts

PTSD doesn’t just affect the mind; it changes behaviours and social interactions.

• Avoidance behaviour: the urge to steer clear of situations that trigger distress can significantly impact your life. This might lead you to change jobs, move to a new place, or even cut yourself off from social circles. Each of these choices can bring financial consequences, from job search expenses to moving costs or the loss of a support network that might have offered emotional or even financial assistance.
• Emotional detachment: withdrawing emotionally can also come at a price. The feeling of being cut off from your family and friends can be distressing and may need professional help to overcome. The costs for therapy or counselling sessions can add up, not to mention the emotional toll of trying to reconnect with your passions and the people you care about.

Physical and health impacts: the effects of PTSD aren't just mental; they can manifest physically as well. This could range from stress-induced conditions like hair loss or gastrointestinal issues to more severe symptoms like heart palpitations or tremors. These physical impacts may need medical treatment, adding another layer of financial and emotional stress.

Physical symptoms

Many people who experience PTSD experience physical symptoms. If you’ve paid for medical treatments for ailments like insomnia, fatigue or tension, you might be able to claim compensation to cover these losses.

• Therapy and medication: regular therapeutic sessions and necessary medications are often pivotal in managing PTSD and can form a significant part of compensation claims.
• Quality of life disruption: beyond the tangible effects, there's the immeasurable reduction in life's joy and contentment, which may merit compensation for pain and suffering.

Recognising the breadth of PTSD's impact is vital not just for the individual but for everyone around them. Switalskis is dedicated to making sure that the true depth of the effects of PTSD on you is recognised, allowing for compensation that reflects each person's experience.

Diagnosis is a critical step in the claim process. A licensed medical professional, often a psychiatrist or psychologist, can diagnose PTSD and provide evidence of how it has affected your life. They will assess symptoms such as flashbacks, heightened alertness, avoidance behaviours, and mood changes. Regular consultations over a period may be needed for a diagnosis.

Can I claim compensation for PTSD caused by a workplace incident?

Yes. If your PTSD resulted from a work-related incident or prolonged exposure to traumatic events during employment (such as witnessing tragedies while working as a first responder), you could be eligible. Employers have a duty of care to guarantee the safety and wellbeing of their employees. If this has been breached, there may be grounds for a claim.

How is compensation calculated for PTSD?

Compensation for PTSD isn't a one-size-fits-all figure. It's determined by the severity of symptoms, lost earnings, costs of therapy and treatment, and future care needs. Non-financial impacts like pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment in life, also influence the final amount. Expert testimony, such as from therapists or employment specialists, might be needed to get a full picture of how the condition has affected your life.

Will my claim be confidential?

Rest assured, confidentiality is paramount. All information shared with your legal team is protected by client-solicitor privilege. Although some details might be disclosed to the opposing party or medical professionals, personal details will be protected.

How long does a PTSD compensation claim take?

The timeline varies significantly. Factors influencing the duration include the complexity of the case, the quality and amount of evidence, and the stance of the opposing party. While some straightforward claims might be resolved within months, more complex cases, especially those that go to court, can extend over several years. If you require ongoing therapy this can also prolong the settlement of a claim.

What if I had pre-existing mental health issues before the traumatic event?

If you had pre-existing conditions, the compensation process might be more nuanced. It's essential to differentiate the impact of the traumatic event from previous conditions. A comprehensive medical history and professional evaluations will help to pinpoint the effect of the traumatic event on triggering PTSD.

What if I face retaliation for making a claim, especially from an employer?

Retaliatory actions are not only unethical but also unlawful. The law protects those who seek compensation for genuine grievances. If any form of retaliation, like demotion, dismissal, or hostility at work, happens after launching a PTSD claim, you should document the incidents and notify your legal representative immediately. Such actions can further strengthen your claim and could lead to additional claims against the retaliating party.