Stress and mental health have become monumental concerns and topics over the last 5 years especially in light of the coronavirus pandemic. FECA and OWCP appreciate and understand the importance of having happy and well-adjusted federal workers, and as such, have put in place programs to alleviate as well as compensate workers for any stress-related or mental health claims arising out of work circumstances. For instance, 5 U.S.C. § 8101(5) includes mental illness as a form of injury as long as it was exacerbated or initiated by a work circumstance.

That said, the burden of proof lies on you; you must demonstrate a causal relationship between your injury and the specific work factor that caused it. In addition, you’re required to put forth medical evidence as well as an official medical diagnosis. OWCP will provide compensation for work factors such as overwork, work-related harassment, unreasonable work demands, as well as witnessing or becoming the subject of a traumatic work event. Objectivity is key when it comes to these claims, so make sure that your psychologist’s or psychiatrist’s assessment mentions this. Remember, you don’t have to suffer silently and experience diminished mental health: help is at hand; simply reach out to us for assistance with filing these types of claims.