Coping With A Traumatic Injury

Trauma is the leading cause of disability and death in the U.S., accounting for over three million non-fatal injuries per year. Some of the most common traumas involve road traffic crashes and traumatic brain injuries – both of which can cause short and long-term consequences that can seriously interfere with a person’s ability to live, work, socialize, and carry out day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. If you have experienced a traumatic injury, ensure you take key steps to guarantee your independence and facilitate rehabilitation.

Seeking Legal Advice

If you have been injured in a car accident owing to the negligence of another driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. As explained by an Orlando based law firm specializing in personal injuries, depending on where you live, the relevant statute of limitations will determine how long you have to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. For instance, in states like Iowa, the statute of limitations is two years, as it is in California. In Florida, however, it is four years, and in Arkansas, it is three. It is important to see a lawyer as soon as you feel fit enough so you can receive advice on what damages to claim and receive compensation as soon as possible. Doing so will enable you to access a wider range of therapies, which can be costly, and take the time you need before you rejoin the workforce or commit to other responsibilities.

Finding Support From Other Survivors

Joining a support group can help you meet other survivors, obtain vital information about new treatments, and receive recommendations for therapies and professionals. Just a few brain injury support groups include The TBI Bridge in California, The Alabama Head Injury Foundation, and Brain Injury Connections Northwest. Many offer virtual support in current times and all share resources, tips, news and stories.

Finding A New Routine

During recovery, you may find that your needs have changed. For instance, you may wish to spend time with a select group of friends or family members, or you may wish to be alone more. Within this time of change, establishing a routine can help you feel more empowered and enable you to feel like you are taking steps forward. Your routine can include exercise, having meals at specific times, and socializing with others. When you’re in the company of family and friends, you might wish to keep the topic off your injury for a while. If so, let them know of your wishes until you feel ready to share your experience.

Embracing Stress-Relieving Activities

Being in nature for just a few minutes can significantly lower levels of stress hormones, which is why taking time to enjoy a little ‘green’ or ‘blue’ time is important during a recovery from a traumatic injury. Taking part in holistic activities can also help. A 2020 study by researchers at the University of Connecticut showed that people who had experienced a brain concussion benefit from yoga, meditation, and mindfulness-based interventions. These activities helped increase self-compassion, reduce inflammation, and reduce rumination among people dealing with depression.

Overcoming a traumatic injury can take several months, and in some cases, the consequences of such an injury can be long-term or chronic. Those who have experienced a traumatic injury owing to the actions or negligence of others should seek legal advice to obtain due compensation. They should also aim to interact with others, stick to a routine, and find natural ways to quell stress.