4 Tips to Coping with the Psychological Effects of Injury

Being injured is never a good thing.

Whether it’s a minor pulled muscle that prevents you from maintaining your gym regime or a serious back injury that prevents you from being able to work, although, of course, the latte example is likely to be far more stressful than the former.

If you are seriously injured, not only do you have to deal with the physical pain of the injury, but chances are you will also have to endure numerous psychological effects from stress to depression.

The good news is, there are a few things you can do to cope with the psychological effects of an injury some of which you will find below.

 

1. Practice acceptance

Some people, when they are injured, try to play it down, deny the reality of the situation and attempt to carry on as normal.

This is the worst possible way to go about things because all it is going to do is make the injury worse, and sooner or later, things will all come crashing down around you.

No, what you need to do, first and foremost, is to accept the situation you’re in. Honestly assess the situation, come to terms with it and work on doing what you can to improve the situation, even if that does mean slowing down for a while.

 

2. Deal with stressors

Stress is a common side effect of serious illness, and it is one that can make things worse, causing you to experience more pain, both mental and physical, than you really need to, so it’s a good idea to do what you can to lower any stressors your injury has brought into your life.

For example, if you’re worried about being able to work and earn money due to your injury, you could create a new budget or look at the potential of having an injury law firm help you get compensation.

Or if you’re worried about not being able to exercise like you once could, you could look at hiring a physical therapist to help get you back in shape, Do whatever it takes to get your stress under control.

 

3. Get a hobby

If you’re laid up and you can’t do much in the way of work or your usual social activities, you’re going to want to get a hobby and fast.

Having a hobby will stop your brain from turning to mush, give you something to focus on other than your pain and misery and give you a reason to get up and get on each day.

Hobbies that can be useful when you’re injured include light exercise if your doctor says it’s okay, puzzles,. Blogging and crafting, but feel free to try whatever piques your interest –  just make sure you do something!

 

4. See a therapist

If you’re really struggling with the consequences of your injury, seeing a therapist who can help you come to terms with it and put in place new coping techniques, would probably be a very useful thing indeed.

There is absolutely no shame in admitting you need help and doing what you can to get it.

Good luck, I hope you get well soon!