A serious injury can present a range of challenges to the person who has suffered it. In many cases, the mental aspect of recovery can be more strenuous than the physical side of things – especially if your experience of recovery is very limited.
Mental health tends to suffer in the wake of a sufficiently severe injury. You might find yourself housebound, and unable to perform simple tasks, like making a cup of tea. As such, adopting the right mindset can be hugely beneficial.
Understanding the mental challenges
We might break the mental challenges down into several distinct categories.
Frustration
You might feel frustrated by your inability to live your life as you once did. This is likely if you had a very physical lifestyle, and find yourself unable to enjoy sports and activities as you did before.
Anxiety
You might feel anxious, especially if the circumstances or location of your injury are revisited. In this case, it’s worth visiting the location to face up to the feeling (but not before you’re ready).
Depression
Depression is a very common mental health problem for injury victims. Physical activity and self-esteem are both likely to take a hit during this period, and depression is a common result.
The Power of a Positive Mindset
Keeping positive is essential during this period. There are a number of techniques you might adopt to keep yourself oriented during your recovery. You might keep a journal of things you’re grateful for. You might spend some time around people who make you feel positively about yourself. Visualise your goal, and how it will feel to achieve it. Positive thinking can reduce stress, improve sleep and provide a greater sense of overall well-being. Think of it like any other skill, and practice it.
Support Systems
As we’ve mentioned, support can be vital. Cultivate a support group of friends and family members. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – whether it’s with something practical, like doing the dishes or driving you to your appointments, or something simple like lending a sympathetic ear when you’re going through a rough time.
It might be that you’re going through a legal process during your recovery, which has the potential to exacerbate your feelings of stress and depression. Getting a competent personal injury solicitor onside can help to put you at ease. In most cases, these legal professionals will act on a no-win, no-fee basis – which means that you won’t be exposed to financial risk.
Healthcare professionals can play a crucial role, both in terms of your physical recovery, and your psychological well-being. Talk honestly about how you’re feeling, and you might find that your experience is more common than you think.
