Safe Work Australia has released an independent research report conducted by Monash University, Research examining pathways to secondary psychological injury.
The report examines the key drivers that contribute to an injured worker developing a secondary psychological injury. A secondary psychological injury refers to new or worsening mental health symptoms that arise during a workers’ compensation claim.
The research finds that a secondary psychological injury is more likely to occur when a worker’s capacity to cope with stressors is reduced following a workplace injury or illness.
Uncertainty around claims processes, financial pressures and unclear recovery expectations were identified as major factors influencing coping and recovery.
The report also highlights the importance of interpersonal interactions. The quality of communication and support from supervisors and claims managers can significantly affect a worker’s psychological wellbeing during the claims process, with unsupportive interactions increasing the risk of secondary psychological injury.
To help reduce these risks, the report recommends:
- adopting a nationally consistent working definition of secondary psychological injury
- developing consistent approaches for risk screening and monitoring
- reducing uncertainty for workers across the claims journey
- minimising repetitive or unnecessary information requests, and
- providing additional support to workers with pre-injury mental health conditions and those with long duration claims.
The report also identifies key areas for further research, including the economic and financial impacts of secondary psychological injuries and the effectiveness of current interventions. These insights will inform further work under Safe Work Australia’s National Return to Work Strategy.