Workers' Compensation Safety Board of Nova Scotia

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Gradual Onset Psychological Injury Claim Process

If you have experienced a work-related gradual onset psychological injury or have an employee who has, we are here to help you with the claim, recovery, and making safe, healthy work part of your recovery, wherever possible. 

A gradual onset psychological injury is an injury that happens over a period of time. It is brought on by significant workplace stressors, such as bullying or harassment. 

Watch this short video to help you understand what a work-related gradual onset psychological injury is.

To be eligible for coverage by the WCB, you must be assessed by a registered psychologist or psychiatrist. If we feel you have experienced a significant workplace stressor, the WCB will arrange and pay for your assessment. 

Find out more about work-related gradual onset psychological injuries.

1. Do You Have a Gradual Onset Psychological Injury?

If you think you are experiencing a gradual onset psychological injury as a result of your work, or you think you may have this type of injury in your workplace, we’re here to help. 

Find out if your situation is likely to be covered by the WCB. 

For Workers

Questions about gradual onset psychological injury? Client Care Navigators are available to support workers and employers through the process and to connect you with community resources. 

2. Opening a Claim

We know these kinds of injuries are difficult. The process in place to help you recover and return to work is designed to support you and your employer every step of the way. The people involved in the process have all been specially trained to support this kind of injury. 

Find out how to open a gradual onset psychological injury claim. 

If you don’t want to open a claim but are looking for care and support, there are mental health resources you can access outside of the WCB.

For Employers

A worker can open a claim with you via MyAccount or on their own by phone. If they choose to open on their own, you will be notified as soon as the claim is opened and involved in the process throughout the claim.

3. Claim Decision

What happens after a claim is opened? An eligibility specialist gathers information to help make a claim decision.  Find out more about what to expect while a claim is being decided and the supports available for workers and employers. 

4. Treatment, Return to Work, and Recovery

A case manager is here to support workers and employers throughout their treatment and safe recovery at work. Custom treatment services are provided. Learn more about treatment and return to work for gradual onset psychological injury.