Sustaining a long-term disability due to an injury can be life-altering, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. Many individuals face significant psychological challenges, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they adjust to their new reality. The loss of independence, financial strain, and social isolation often exacerbate these struggles.
Understanding the Emotional Toll of Long-Term Disability
First, you need to understand the emotional toll. It is normal for people to go through a wide range of emotions following the injury, including shock, disbelief, anger, frustration, and hopelessness. This can all take its toll on your well-being, but this is to be expected and a phase that you will move past.
Common Mental Health Challenges: Depressions, Anxiety, & PTSD
Many people also experience depression, anxiety, and/or PTSD. It can be easy for individuals to grieve their former life and lose interest in activities that once brought joy, while it is understandable for people to feel anxious about what their future will look like. PTSD is particularly common for those who were involved in a romantic accident, which can lead to flashbacks and heightened anxiety.
Coping Strategies: Adjusting to a New Way of Life
Adjusting to your new reality will always be challenging, and it is important to recognise this. Coping strategies include finding new hobbies and interests, setting yourself realistic goals, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and meeting other people in the same position as you for support, advice, and companionship.
The Role of Support Networks: Family, Friends, & Therapy
Leading on from this, a support network is crucial for adapting to your new life. Do not shy away from asking family and loved ones for support, whether this is practical or emotional. Therapy can also be helpful for developing healthy coping mechanisms, getting to grips with your situation, and reframing your thoughts around the injury.
Financial Strain & Its Psychological Impact
Long-term disability can also create financial strain, which can take its toll psychologically. A long-term disability can impact your ability to earn now and possibly in the future, which can cause a great deal of uncertainty.
Legal Rights & Seeking Compensation
Leading on from this, you could be entitled to compensation if the injury was not your fault. This compensation can cover the financial losses, including current and future loss of earnings. Additionally, physical and mental pain and suffering are factored in. No win no fee lawyers can take on your case while reducing financial risk as they will only take on the case if they are confident of winning.
Where to Find Help: Support Groups, Charities, & Resources
Support groups can be incredibly helpful, whether this is online or in your area. Be sure to search for support groups, charities, and resources linked to the type of accident you were involved in and the type of disability you have.
Coming to terms with a long-term disability after an injury will always be difficult, but hopefully, the information in this post will be useful and help you adjust to your new reality.
