Whether the injuries you’ve sustained will leave a lifelong impact or you’ll eventually regain full mobility, there are some steps you need to take in order to acclimate yourself to your new normal. Injuries are largely random and can happen to anyone. Keep reading if you’d like to know how to adjust to life after a serious injury.
Find a New Hobby
You may find yourself unwilling or unable to do some of the things you enjoyed before your injury. Try to find some new ways to pass the time. You can take up any number of creative outlets. For example, singing, playing an instrument, and creative writing are all great ways to gain new skills, spend some time, and express how you’re feeling.
Lean on Your Support System
No matter if they’re your friends or family, you have a network of people who care about you and want you to do well during this difficult transitional period. Talking to them and spending time with them can boost your morale as well as let you know that you’re not in this alone.
Look Into Entitlements
Depending on the severity and the circumstances around your injury, you may be entitled to assistance through your insurance or government programs. Some insurance programs provide for household assistance with cleaning, cooking, shopping, and even bathing if you need it. You may also be able to get a parking placard for persons with disabilities, which can come in handy if you still need to get out and run errands.
Be Patient
Remember that this is a process. Be patient and give yourself grace. You may be dealing with a situation you’ve never had to deal with before, and that’s hard. You’re not going to get straight back to the way things were right away. Take your time and let yourself figure things out. This is the most important part of learning how to adjust to life after a serious injury.
Stay positive; the situation you’re in won’t be new forever. If you’re able to gain full use of your body, you can look forward to rehab and getting back in shape. If the injuries are life-changing, you have to adjust to your new normal. Find ways to spend your time, keep in close contact with friends and family, find out what entitlements you may have, and be patient throughout the whole process. No matter what your situation may be, you’ve got this!
