Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder for Employers

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—what’s covered, employer steps, and resources.

Support for first responders

Because of their work, first responders face more traumatic events than most people. This increases the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you think a worker might have PTSD, encourage them to talk to a mental health professional as soon as they can. If they don’t have access to one, WCB can send a referral to a WCB-approved provider, which can help make the process faster.

WCB provides coverage for work-related PTSD. For many first responder roles, a PTSD diagnosis is presumed to be work-related—making it easier to access benefits and services.

During the claim process, WCB explains what to expect, and connects the worker with confidential support. When it’s safe, staying connected to work can help them heal. If they need time away, WCB will plan a safe, early return to work based on the worker’s abilities.

What PTSD is

PTSD is a medical diagnosis based on guidelines in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). It can follow one traumatic event or repeated exposure to traumatic events at work, such as death, threat of death, serious injury, or violence.

Common symptoms can include:

  • Nightmares or flashbacks of the event
  • Feeling on edge, nervous, or irritable
  • Feeling numb or detached
  • Trouble concentrating or sleeping
  • Changes in mood or relationships
  • Difficulty at work that may require time away

Only a psychologist or psychiatrist can confirm a PTSD diagnosis for a claim.

Think you may be dealing with a different type of psychological injury?

WCB also provides coverage for work-related traumatic psychological injury (TPI) and gradual onset psychological injury.

Who qualifies for presumed coverage

For these occupations, a confirmed PTSD diagnosis is presumed to be work-related unless the evidence shows otherwise. This makes it easier to access benefits and services.

  • Police
  • Firefighters, paid and volunteer
  • Paramedics
  • Nurses
  • Correctional officers
  • Continuing care assistants
  • Emergency-response dispatchers
  • Sheriffs

If a worker is no longer working as a first responder, they may still qualify. What matters is the diagnosis date. There are time limits under the law. If they have a diagnosis, contact us as soon as possible to discuss their situation.

Important: Presumption removes the need to prove the PTSD is work-related. It does not guarantee a claim will be accepted. WCB still needs to confirm the diagnosis and gather the information required to decide benefits and services.

When presumed coverage may not apply

A worker may not be covered under presumption if:

  • Their occupation is not on the covered list
  • They do not have a diagnosis of PTSD from a psychologist or psychiatrist
  • The evidence clearly shows the PTSD is not primarily related to work
  • Their condition is another type of psychological injury

A worker may still qualify for coverage for:

How to open a PTSD claim

Help the worker choose the option that feels safest for them. WCB will explain each step and keep you and the worker updated.

  • Call a Client Care Navigator: 1-833-491-8889 or 902-491-8888. They will provide answers and help to start the claim.
  • Encourage the worker to tell their primary care provider: They should explain how the symptoms relate to work. The primary care provider cannot confirm a PTSD diagnosis, but will send a report to WCB to start the process.
  • Report online with your worker: You and the worker can submit an injury report together through WCB MyAccount.

After the claim is opened, a case manager will coordinate care, benefits, and return-to-work planning.

Benefits and services a worker may receive

  • Earnings-loss benefits if they cannot work or their income is reduced
  • Approved treatment and services, including psychological care

Employer responsibilities

As an employer, you are responsible for keeping your workplace free of physical and psychological safety hazards. You are also responsible for supporting workers if they are injured in your workplace. The WCB is here to help.

Explore helpful tools and training material for navigating and preventing workplace psychological injuries.

Crisis support

If a worker is in crisis, get help now.

Questions?

Call a Client Care Navigator: 1-833-491-8889 or 902-491-8888.

Last updated: 2025-10-21
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