A significant injury can change everything in your life in the blink of an eye. From being out of work to being unable to even get to the bathroom under your own power, there are many physical and mental barriers to overcome. It can be a lot, but there are ways to cope with the injury and still live your best life.
1. Allow yourself to be upset.
A catastrophic injury can warp your worldview, and leave you angry and upset over the state you’re in. Don’t feel like you have to hold those emotions in. The best thing you can do for yourself is allowing yourself to process the injury the same way you would process grief over the loss of a loved one.
Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance are all natural feelings to go through to inevitably realize that you are currently inhibited by a serious injury. Letting these emotions is especially important if that injury is permanent. This will allow you to feel the greatest comfort going forward.
2. Consider legal action.
If your injury is the result of someone else’s negligence, make sure to look at the legal options that are available to you. Chaikin LaPenna, a top NYC injury lawyer, has advised several clients with severe injuries to help them get the compensation they deserve. Regardless of whether the injuries happened in the operating room or in auto accidents, a personal injury lawsuit can help to account for medical expenses and other outstanding debts resulting from this major injury.
Be sure to seek legal advice or reach out for a free consultation with a personal injury attorney before moving forward with litigation. This will help you get an idea of what’s on the horizon, and where you can receive the compensation you may be seeking to cover costs.
3. Find creative outlets.
Recovery from major injuries can be lengthy and taxing. However, it’s important to consider an outlet for everything you’re feeling to keep you leveled every step of the way. From art to music, there is much you can pursue even with broken bones. This will allow a welcome distraction from any pain or difficulties that have been brought on by a significant injury.
These outlets are especially helpful if you are in the middle of a medical malpractice claim, as the stress of legal action can wear on some people leading to cases of anxiety and other mental health troubles. If there’s a hobby you can accomplish while recovering, it may be the time to pursue this.
4. Don’t hesitate to look into alternative treatments.
A doctor may set you up with a treatment regimen that includes prescription medication that you may have some questions about taking. However, you may want to look into something that helps you cope with the pain without fearing addiction. Products like Delta 10 THC have analgesic and neuroprotective properties, utilizing CBD and THC that commonly are relaxants for most users.
CBD is the compound in hemp plants linked to the calming properties of marijuana use, while THC is the psychoactive agent that is linked to the high people experience with some cannabis use.
5. Trust the rehab process.
It may seem like a futile effort at times, but treatment plans are in place to help you slowly return to normal or realize a new normal with your injuries. Be sure to be transparent with your care team about how you’re feeling about your progress. They may want to adapt to make changes for the next step in the process.
While it may be difficult to stay positive, consider the years of experience of your primary care provider and other care staff that are helping you get back to a better way of life.