Workplace Mental Stress
Work-related chronic mental stress is a diagnosed mental disorder resulting from elements and triggers, or a series of triggers, in their workplace. This is a tough issue, and many workers often struggle to find good advice.
The Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers Inc (OHCOW) has online resources available for individuals who are suffering from workplace mental stress. The Mental injury Toolkit, found here, provides workers with a basic understanding and a place to learn about workplace stress and what to do about it. The material on this site may be out of date, but is currently the best available resource.
There are a number of options a person facing this situation may want to consider including a WSIB claim, or a Union Grievance.
If you, or someone you know, may be experiencing mental stress in the workplace, and would like some more information, you can visit the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety website here, or the WSIB website here, for some general information.
A leading expert in this complex area of law, involving potential for overlapping/conflicting jurisdiction is Maryth Yachnin at the legal clinic called IAVGO.
Former OPP Officer Bruce Kruger has a case proceeding before the HRTO against the WSIB alleging discrimination based on mental v physical disability. His application recently survived a R19A Application to dismiss filed by the WSIB. This represents a positive finding that his case has a reasonable prospect of succeeding.
