Mental health support after a workplace accident: counselling and therapy options

By Chris Salmon | Updated: September 16, 2025

A workplace accident can affect more than your physical health. Many people experience stress, anxiety, or depression after an injury. Accessing the right mental health support can play a vital role in your recovery and in strengthening your compensation claim.

At a glance

Mental health problems such as PTSD, anxiety and depression are common after workplace accidents.
Support can include NHS counselling, private therapy, and employer-funded schemes.
Therapy costs can often be recovered as part of a personal injury claim.
Your GP can provide referrals, and occupational health teams may also be involved.
Early intervention improves recovery and strengthens evidence for your claim.

Why mental health support matters after an accident

Psychological injuries can be just as serious as physical ones. Problems such as sleep disturbance, flashbacks, panic attacks, or difficulty returning to work are common. Recognising and treating mental health issues early can aid recovery and prevent long-term problems.

Types of support available

NHS services: Your GP can refer you to counselling or therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) through NHS Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services. More information is available from the NHS website.
Private counselling: If waiting lists are long, you may choose to see a private counsellor or psychotherapist. Costs can sometimes be recovered as part of your compensation claim.
Employer-funded support: Some employers offer Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) which provide confidential counselling sessions.
Charities and support organisations: Groups such as Mind and Samaritans provide free support, helplines and resources.

Claiming for therapy and counselling costs

If your solicitor includes psychological injury in your claim, the cost of therapy can often be claimed as special damages. This may include counselling fees, travel expenses for appointments, or even costs for longer-term treatment if recommended by a medical expert.

The independent medical assessment arranged during your claim will usually assess both physical and mental health impacts. This ensures that your compensation reflects the full effect of your accident.

Practical example

A warehouse worker suffered a back injury after a fall. Following the accident, he developed anxiety about returning to work and struggled to sleep. His solicitor arranged for him to see a private CBT therapist while his claim progressed. The therapy helped his recovery and the cost was later reimbursed as part of his compensation award.

Next steps

If you are struggling with your mental health after a workplace accident, speak to your GP as soon as possible. Documenting your symptoms and treatment will help your recovery and also support your claim. A solicitor can also advise whether therapy costs can be included in your compensation claim.

External references

NHS: Every Mind Matters - Tips for working from home - offers practical advice for managing mental wellbeing, relevant for those recovering from work-related trauma.
GOV.UK: Financial help if you're disabled - includes information on accessing mental health support services for those affected by workplace injuries.
Citizens Advice: Support for health conditions - provides guidance on finding mental health support and community resources post-accident.
HSE: Mental health at work - offers resources on managing mental health issues related to workplace incidents, including stress and trauma.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon

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