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How the Jones Act Protects Your Mental Health Recovery if You Are Injured on the Job at Sea

Working as a fisherman on the open waters often requires long periods away from loved ones and exposure to dangerous working conditions. The demanding nature of maritime work, combined with the isolation of the sea, can lead to significant psychological struggles, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our New York maritime injury lawyers explain the common mental health struggles commercial fishermen face and how the Jones Act can protect your rights. We can help you receive the support and compensation needed to recover from work-related mental health challenges at sea. 

Mental Health Challenges of Commercial Fishing

There are unique mental health challenges faced by commercial fishermen who spend extended time at sea. These challenges are different from other professions and may include:

Isolation and Loneliness

A common challenge for commercial fishermen is isolation. Spending extended periods at sea, often weeks or months away from family and friends, can cause intense loneliness. The lack of social interaction and support can worsen mental health issues, making it difficult to cope with the stresses and demands of the job at sea.

Dangerous Working Conditions

Commercial fishing is one of the most dangerous occupations. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the fatality rate for commercial fishermen is over 40 times higher than the national average. Dangers such as hazardous weather conditions, heavy machinery, and long hours contribute to the high fatality rate. The stress of working in such a risky environment can lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The constant vigilance required to stay safe can take a toll on mental health, leading to exhaustion and burnout.

PTSD and Trauma

Commercial fishing comes with risks and can result in traumatic experiences, such as severe injuries or the loss of colleagues at sea. These traumatic events can trigger post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterized by symptoms such as:

  • Recurrent flashbacks and nightmares related to the traumatic incident at sea
  • Avoiding people, places, or situations that remind you of the traumatic event
  • Feeling detached, emotionally numb, or hopeless
  • Being easily startled, feeling on edge, or experiencing outbursts of anger
  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
  • Feeling guilt or shame about the event

In addition, PTSD may trigger physical symptoms without a clear medical cause, such as chronic pain, headaches, or digestive problems. Not everyone experiences the same signs of PTSD. The signs may not appear immediately and can often surface months or years after the traumatic event. This condition can not only impact your ability to function at sea but can affect all aspects of your personal life, leading to further isolation and worsening mental health. 

The Jones Act and Legal Support for Maritime Workers

The Jones Act provides important protections for those who work at sea. Since working on a vessel at sea makes you ineligible for federal workers’ compensation benefits, this act allows you to seek compensation for injuries sustained while at sea. Under the Jones Act, you could recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Not only does the Jones Act address physical injuries, but it can also cover psychological injuries such as PTSD as well. If you experience PTSD symptoms due to your work at sea, you may be eligible to file a Jones Act claim and seek compensation for your treatment and other needs. To qualify for PTSD compensation under the Jones Act, you must have a professional diagnosis and medical records documenting your symptoms to support your claim.

Our skilled maritime accident lawyers at Hofmann & Schweitzer are here to help if you are suffering from PTSD or another mental health condition related to your time at sea. We have the knowledge, experience, and determination needed to secure fair compensation for your mental health claim under the Jones Act. We have successfully helped numerous injured seamen obtain the maximum compensation they deserve and may be able to assist you in your mental health injury claim as well.

Paul T. Hofmann
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Focused on personal injury, with an emphasis on maritime, railroad and construction worker tort claims.
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