In this edition of the Voice of the Injured Worker, we again share real conversations with Injured Workers to bring their experiences with Workers’ Compensation to the forefront of our industry. Often when an employee first gets injured, they face a multitude of worries related to their future security, wellness, financial stability, and caring for their family.
Read the excerpts of our conversations with Jamie, an injured individual, who had just started her light-duty assignment at a local nonprofit organization. Here, Jamie explains how she dealt with the realities of a workplace injury and her experience during the Workers’ Compensation process. Although she had concerns and fears, eventually she was able to find the support she needed.
Jamie’s Story: A Journey from Depression to Finding Peace
How has your Worker’s Compensation experience been so far? What have been the best and worst parts?
“I was home for about two months, and I was depressed and frustrated. I gained twenty pounds. And I kept asking my job if they had anything for me, and they finally told me about this option (a light-duty assignment at a local nonprofit). I was worried about not being able to pay my bills, or what if I became homeless?”
“The worker’s comp process is confusing. It’s like you’re lost. You don’t have people to guide you, your work doesn’t guide you. I have the Union, though, thankfully. They guided me, and they helped me. They explained this process to me [when I got the letter about light-duty]. I was so confused by the letter – like ‘Am I working for free? What is this?’ But the Union explained it to me and made me feel better about it. My job didn’t explain anything to me. I don’t hear from them.”
“Everything is great now. I don’t have any issues. I like the environment of this place (the nonprofit). This place is very peaceful. When I first got here, I was like, ‘Oh my god, what is this place?’ but I’ve found peacefulness in it. And the people are so nice. When I talked to some of the other girls I started crying. I felt very emotional, because of the peacefulness and knowing that I’m helping other people.”
“I’m having a good experience. Everyone that comes in and volunteers is very happy, and so helpful and wanting to help.”
Lessons Learned from Jamie’s Experience
Like so many injured workers, Jamie’s Workers’ Compensation experience began with frustration, worry, and fear. She felt isolated and ‘in the dark’ due to lack of clear communication from her employer, leaving her without explanations or answers to her questions. After her injury, she remained at home and unable to perform her regular work, which resulted in her feelings of depression.
Left without communication from her employer, Jamie found the guidance she needed from her Union representative. With their support, she was able to gain clarity and encouragement to take part in modified duty. It was her experience in her light-duty assignment that led to a feeling she was doing something meaningful. She used what she learned to help others and felt at peace with where she was.
Often, an injured employee has concerns at the onset of their injury and confusion about their Workers’ Compensation claim. Adequate support and communication with the injured worker can improve their recovery experience. It is necessary for all stakeholders to be on the same page about how to support their injured workers. There are many questions and concerns individuals with injuries have and it is imperative that everyone who is in contact with the injured worker explain the ins and outs of the Workers’ Compensation process, set appropriate expectations, and guide them as needed.
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