Psychosocial Barriers and Workers’ Comp Recoveries

Psychosocial barriers exist in many people’s lives and affect many parts of life that some don’t realize. An article by Allen Laman describes the psychosocial barrier that affect workers comp specifically. Returning to work can have its difficulties when people lack the resources to do so. Laman writes that “40% of employees who have missed workdays due to injury have experiences a psychosocial barrier to recovery”. Laman describes some of the obstacles that might affect an employee, including lack of support systems, lack of motivation, anxiety or fear, poor recovery expectations, stressful workplaces, all these things can really affect an employee coming back to work. Social, mental, emotional, and behavioral issues can arise at any time, but returning to work after an injury can really be a hinderance. The article mentions a few things that people can do to reduce and address the issues that could delay returning to work. One of the techniques is work-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. The article also mentions a new app that Travelers, a worker’s comp insurer designed to provide mental health solutions and support to facilitate a holistic recovery. This app, according to the article, has helped individuals bounce back quicker, and has shown that employees using the app reduced missed workday by about one third. Having a more supportive and positive approach to getting employees back to work provides a safe space, and shows that the individual is cared about, not just needed for work. This is extremely beneficial for both mental health, and general well-being for all humans.

To read the full article, check it out here:

Laman, A. (2022, November 16). Psychosocial barriers not uncommon in workers' comp recoveries. Insurance Journal. Retrieved December 12, 2022, from https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2022/11/16/695297.htm