Mental health claims

Around 1 in 4 of us will suffer from a mental illness at some point in our lives. These include anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, psychosis or an eating disorder, e.g. anorexia nervosa.

This has a traumatic effect on the sufferer but is no less traumatic for their family. Their family is often left to cope with what can be a distressing situation and very often, do not know where to obtain help.

People with mental illnesses are amongst some of the most vulnerable members of society. They require care, understanding and compassion for their condition which is often difficult to deal with.

This care can take place within a psychiatric facility or at home but whatever the situation it should be administered to the highest standard.

Sadly this is not always the case.

There are cases where people with a mental illness have suffered an injury or illness due to inadequate care and supervision or medical negligence. They may have been prescribed the wrong type of medication, left unattended or allowed to self harm.

If this has happened to you or a member of your family then there may be grounds for a compensation claim.

Impact of mental illness

The consequences of a mental illness cannot be underestimated. It is a frustrating, stressful and confusing situation which is bad enough for the patient and equally traumatic for their family.

It affects every aspect of your life. Someone with a mental illness may have to give up work which then puts a strain on the family finances. They may require specialist care and support from the State which can be difficult to access.

There may be paperwork to deal with, forms to complete and other similar issues which can be both stressful and time consuming.

Compensation can help to cover the cost of this and improve quality of life for you and your family.

Making a claim for compensation for a mental health injury or illness

Claims for medical negligence such as this are complex affairs which require the services of a skilled personal injury lawyer. Find a lawyer or solicitor with expertise in this field who is also sympathetic and understanding.

They will understand the issues which surround this type of claim and how stressful it is for you and your family.

Mental illness is a sensitive subject which should be approached with tact and sensitivity.

Find out more about the claims process in our making a claim for compensation section.

Time limit for claiming compensation for a mental health injury or illness

Personal injury claims usually have a 3 year deadline but this does vary in certain types of claims.

Ask your personal injury lawyer or solicitor about the time limit for a mental health claim.