487

487     Only ongoing suffering of a continuing or episodic nature is considered.

488     Table B2: Suffering does not include:

a)      temporary suffering; or

b)      speculation about future suffering that has not yet manifested itself.

Table B2: Suffering

| 0 | No symptoms of mental distress experienced. | | 1 | Symptoms of mental distress minimal or ill defined.<br>Symptoms occur intermittently.<br>No interference with activity. | | 2 | Distinct symptoms of mental distress which are episodic in nature.<br>Activities reduced during such episodes.<br>Recovers quickly after episodes. | | 3 | Symptoms of mental distress are distinct and varied.<br>Episodes of mental distress occur regularly.<br>Ability to cope or perform activity effectively reduced during episodes.<br>Needs time to recover between episodes.<br>Treatment – medication such as anti-depressants, counselling or other therapy by a psychologist or<br>psychiatrist, or other supportive therapy – is of benefit in controlling or relieving symptoms. | | 4 | Symptoms of mental distress are wide ranging and tend to dominate thinking.<br>Rarely free of symptoms of mental distress.<br>Difficulty coping or performing activity.<br>Treatment necessary either to control or relieve symptoms. | | 5 | Symptoms of mental distress arising from accepted condition interferes with normal thought processes. Activities severely restricted.<br>Treatment of no real benefit in controlling or relieving symptoms. |

B3 Loss of amenities

489     The term ‘loss of amenities’ is defined in the Glossary. Loss of amenities is also known as ‘loss of enjoyment of life’.