Emotional Distress and Loss of Intimacy: What Does It Mean?

Emotional distress and loss of intimacy are two types of personal injury claims that can be pursued in Canada. These claims arise when a person experiences significant emotional or psychological harm as a result of the actions of another person. In this article, we will discuss emotional distress and loss of intimacy personal injury lawsuits from a legal perspective in Canada. 

Emotional distress refers to a wide range of negative emotions and psychological symptoms that a person may experience as a result of the actions of another person. This can include symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional distress can be caused by a variety of events, including physical or sexual assault, workplace harassment, and discrimination. 

In order to pursue a claim for emotional distress in Canada, a person must demonstrate that they suffered significant harm as a result of the defendant’s actions. This typically involves providing evidence of the emotional distress experienced, such as medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony. The law recognizes that emotional distress can be just as serious as physical injury, and compensation may be awarded for both the physical and psychological effects of the incident. 

Loss of intimacy is another type of personal injury claim that is available in Canada. This type of claim is related to sexual dysfunction or a loss of sexual enjoyment resulting from physical or psychological injury. Loss of intimacy claims may be pursued in cases involving sexual assault, medical malpractice, or other types of personal injury. 

In order to pursue a claim for loss of intimacy, a person must demonstrate that they have suffered a significant loss of sexual enjoyment as a result of the defendant’s actions. This typically requires medical evidence and expert testimony to support the claim. The law recognizes that the loss of sexual enjoyment is a significant injury that can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. 

Steps to take to support your claim: 

Seek medical attention. This will help to document the emotional distress experienced and to provide a medical opinion as to the extent and nature of the harm. Medical records, including diagnoses, treatments, and medications, should be collected and kept in a safe place. 

Gather witness statements from anyone who may have witnessed the events that gave rise to the emotional distress or loss of intimacy. These witnesses may include family members, friends, coworkers, or anyone else who may have relevant information. It is important to obtain written statements from witnesses, as these may be used as evidence in court. 

Gather any other relevant evidence that may support the claim, such as photographs, videos, or other documentation. This may include documentation of any physical injuries, as well as any other evidence that supports the emotional distress experienced, such as journal entries or emails. 

Obtain expert testimony to support the claim. This may include the testimony of a mental health expert, a medical expert, or any other expert who can provide an opinion on the extent and nature of the harm. Expert testimony is often critical in emotional distress and loss of intimacy cases, as it provides a professional assessment of the harm suffered. 

It is important to note that both emotional distress and loss of intimacy claims are subject to limitations under Canadian law. There are strict time limits for bringing these types of claims, and the law may limit the amount of compensation that can be awarded. In addition, there are requirements for the type of evidence that must be provided in support of these claims. 

In conclusion, emotional distress and loss of intimacy are two types of personal injury claims that are available in Canada. These claims arise when a person experiences significant emotional or psychological harm as a result of the actions of another person. Both types of claims require the plaintiff to demonstrate significant harm and to provide evidence to support the claim. It is essential to understand the requirements for pursuing these types of claims and to seek legal advice in order to ensure that the rights and interests of the injured party are protected.