PTSD After a Head Injury at Work in Illinois
A concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI) at work can cause more than physical symptoms—it can also lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many Illinois workers develop PTSD after head injuries that occur during violent, frightening, or life-threatening workplace incidents, including falls, vehicle crashes, or assaults. When PTSD is causally connected to a physical injury such as a concussion or TBI, Illinois workers’ compensation may cover medical treatment, wage loss, and disability benefits. This page explains how PTSD develops after head injuries, how it is treated, and how these claims are handled under Illinois workers’ compensation law.
How PTSD Develops After a Concussion or Brain Injury
PTSD frequently develops after head injuries because concussions and TBIs often occur during traumatic events. Falls from height, serious vehicle crashes, explosions, and workplace attacks can overwhelm the brain’s ability to process fear and stress.
In addition, brain injuries themselves can impair emotional regulation, impulse control, and stress tolerance. Even when physical symptoms improve, these neurological changes can leave workers more vulnerable to PTSD.
PTSD after a head injury may be caused by:
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Fear or panic experienced during the accident
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Loss of consciousness or disorientation
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Ongoing neurological symptoms
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Difficulty returning to work safely
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Workplace violence or assaults
This is why PTSD and brain injuries are so often treated together.
PTSD vs. Post-Concussion Syndrome
PTSD and post-concussion syndrome often overlap, but they are not the same condition.
Post-concussion syndrome typically includes:
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Headaches
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Dizziness
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Cognitive slowing
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Sensitivity to light or noise
PTSD may involve:
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Panic attacks or anxiety
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Intrusive memories or flashbacks
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Hypervigilance
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Avoidance of work or certain environments
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Sleep disturbances and nightmares
Many injured workers experience both, and proper diagnosis is critical for treatment and workers’ compensation benefits.
Common PTSD Symptoms After a Workplace Head Injury
PTSD symptoms may appear weeks or months after a concussion or TBI and can include:
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Anxiety or panic attacks
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Depression or emotional numbness
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Fear of returning to work
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Irritability or anger outbursts
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Difficulty concentrating
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Sleep problems or nightmares
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Avoidance of reminders of the accident
When these symptoms interfere with work or daily functioning, they should be evaluated and documented by a medical professional.
Is PTSD After a Head Injury Covered by Illinois Workers’ Compensation?
Yes. When PTSD is causally related to a physical workplace injury, such as a concussion or traumatic brain injury, it may be compensable under Illinois workers’ compensation law.
PTSD claims are generally stronger when:
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There is a documented physical injury
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Psychological symptoms are diagnosed by a qualified provider
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Symptoms affect work capacity
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Treatment is ongoing
Purely psychological claims can be difficult in Illinois, but physical-mental claims—where PTSD follows a physical injury—are far more viable.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for PTSD After a Head Injury
When PTSD is connected to a concussion or brain injury, workers’ compensation may provide the following benefits:
Medical Treatment
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Psychological or psychiatric care
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Trauma-focused counseling or therapy
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Medication for anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders
Wage Loss Benefits
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Temporary Total Disability (TTD) if symptoms prevent working
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Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) if returning to limited duty
Permanent Disability Benefits
If PTSD causes lasting impairment or prevents a return to prior employment, permanent disability benefits may be available.
PTSD can significantly affect the overall value of a brain injury claim. Learn more on our page discussing how much a concussion or TBI may be worth in Illinois workers’ compensation.
Workplace Violence, Attacks, and PTSD After Head Injuries
PTSD is especially common when concussions or TBIs result from workplace violence, including assaults by patients, customers, or coworkers.
Healthcare workers, correctional officers, and social service professionals face heightened risk. Many assault-related brain injury cases involve both severe neurological symptoms and long-term psychological trauma.
You can learn more in our related resources:
How Insurance Companies Dispute PTSD Claims
Insurance carriers often attempt to minimize PTSD claims by arguing:
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Symptoms are subjective
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Psychological conditions are pre-existing
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PTSD is unrelated to the physical injury
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The worker can return to work despite symptoms
Strong PTSD claims rely on consistent medical documentation, credible treating providers, and clear evidence that psychological symptoms limit work capacity.
When to Speak With an Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
You may benefit from legal guidance if:
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PTSD symptoms persist or worsen
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You are unable to return to work safely
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Benefits are delayed or denied
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The insurer disputes psychological treatment
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Permanent disability is a concern
PTSD after a head injury is real, medically recognized, and often life-altering. These cases require careful handling to ensure benefits reflect the true impact of the injury. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you with this process.
Frequently Asked Questions About PTSD After Head Injuries at Work
Can PTSD develop after a concussion or traumatic brain injury?
Yes. PTSD frequently develops after concussions and TBIs, especially when the injury occurs during a traumatic or violent workplace event.
Is PTSD after a head injury covered by Illinois workers’ compensation?
Yes. When PTSD is causally related to a physical workplace injury such as a concussion or brain injury, it may be compensable.
What is the difference between PTSD and post-concussion syndrome?
Post-concussion syndrome involves physical and cognitive symptoms, while PTSD involves psychological symptoms. Many workers experience both.
Can PTSD increase workers’ compensation benefits?
Yes. PTSD can extend disability, require additional treatment, and increase permanent disability exposure.
Do I need a mental health professional to prove PTSD?
Yes. PTSD should be diagnosed and treated by a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist for proper documentation.
By Matthew C. Jones
Matthew C. Jones is an Illinois workers’ compensation attorney who represents injured workers in complex cases involving traumatic brain injuries, workplace violence, PTSD, and permanent disability.
👉 https://mcharguelaw.com/meet-our-legal-team/matthew-c-jones/
