New WSIB Benefits for Work-related Chronic Mental Stress

As a result of changes in legislation (Bill 127, Schedule 33) and WSIB policy, effective January 1, 2018, workers who first seek medical attention or are diagnosed with a work-related chronic mental stress disorder or traumatic mental stress disorder on or after this date will be adjudicated according to the WSIB's new Chronic Mental Health Policy.  WSIB benefits can include psychological assessment, treatment, prescription medications, wage replacement and return-to-work services.

What is work-related chronic mental stress?
Work-related chronic mental stress is caused by a substantial work-related stressor or series of stressors.  A work-related stressor would generally be considered substantial if it is excessive in intensity and/or duration compared with the normal pressures and tensions experienced by people in similar circumstances.  For example, work-related chronic mental stress could be the result of being subjected to workplace harassment or bullying.

Who would be entitled to support for work-related chronic mental stress under the proposed policy?

Three conditions need to be met for a person to be entitled to support:

  • an appropriate regulated health professional, such as a family physician, provides a diagnosis based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
  • the person has experienced a substantial work-related stressor(s), like workplace bullying or harassment, and
  • the work-related stressor(s) must have caused or significantly contributed to the chronic mental stress.

Learn more about the WSIB Policy here.​

Implications for Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists are mental health professionals who may provide treatment or consultative services to support workers with chronic mental stress.  Occupational therapists may be engaged as consultants/advisors to employers who are concerned about maintaining a healthy workplace environment or modifying the environment or roles/jobs to minimize the impacts of stress for workers.

The new WSIB policy draws increased attention to the importance of managing a healthy workplace and preventing the development of chronic mental stress and may create opportunities for occupational therapists to expand their consultative roles to employers.  Occupational therapists should promote their skills and competence as mental health professionals to be a ready resource to the WSIB when workers are eligible for mental health services.  OSOT will be advocating this position to the WSIB.

Interested in workplace mental health?  Consider linking with OSOT's Workplace Mental Health Team.