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Mental and psychosomatic work injuries in Sweden
L Nilson1, B Herloff, G Thiringer
1Department of Occupational Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Journal of Occupational Medicine. : Official Publication of the Industrial Medical Association
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Mental and psychosomatic illnesses are increasingly recognized as work-related injuries in Sweden. While acceptance rates remain lower than for physical injuries, a notable increase in accepted claims for these conditions has been observed over time.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychiatry
- Social Medicine
Background:
- Sweden's work injuries insurance scheme covers work-related illnesses and injuries.
- A 1977 law expanded coverage to include mental and psychosomatic illnesses.
- Previous research indicates a significant disparity in acceptance rates between mental and physical work-related illnesses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the trends and characteristics of accepted mental and psychosomatic work injuries.
- To compare the approbation rates of mental/psychosomatic illnesses with all work-related illnesses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 67 reported mental or psychosomatic work injury cases in Gothenburg.
- Review of cited harmful influences leading to injury acceptance.
- Comparison with data from an earlier study on work-related illnesses.
Main Results:
- One-third (approximately 33%) of diagnosed mental or psychosomatic illnesses were accepted as work injuries.
- Commonly cited causes included mental/physical strain, traumatic incidents, maltreatment, and persecution.
- The rate of approbation for mental/psychosomatic illnesses (around 30%) is substantially lower than for all work-related illnesses (around 90%).
- A considerable increase in the acceptance of mental and psychosomatic work-related illnesses has been noted over the years.
Conclusions:
- Despite lower acceptance rates, mental and psychosomatic conditions are increasingly being acknowledged as work-related injuries.
- The findings highlight the need for continued attention to psychosocial factors in the workplace.
- Further research is warranted to understand the evolving landscape of occupational mental health claims.