Missing work due to injury is, of course, difficult financially if you are missing out on income, but it also often takes a toll on mental health. Our work gives us structure and a sense of purpose and without these things it is very easy to fall into depression. The longer you are away from your job, the more likely you are to find yourself experiencing issues such as anxiety and depression, making it harder to return to your old position.
Mental Health and Missing Work
Depression is very common in people who miss work for an extended period due to injury. The first six months are essential in preventing any severe mental health issues that may arise while a person is off work because of an injury
Make sure you keep an eye on your mental health and check in with yourself during this time. If you are struggling with your mental wellbeing, do not hesitate to get help.
Don’t Isolate Yourself
It is important to focus on social connections when you are off work because it can be very easy to let that aspect of your life slip away and begin to isolate yourself without realizing it. If getting out and about is difficult or impossible due to your injury, take advantage of the many forms of digital connection available to us. Call, text, or email friends and family regularly to check in.
Keep in touch with your employer while you are off work. It is important to be in regular communication so that they know how your recovery is going and to prevent yourself from feeling completely isolated from your workplace.
Being off work means isolation from the social contact of your colleagues. Work colleagues are a large part of anyone’s social life, whether you are close with them or not, they provide a large percentage of the social contact you are used to having on a given day. These little daily social interactions are something that we often take for granted, but they are a big part of our life that contribute to our wellbeing on a regular basis, even if we do not realize it.
Practice Self Care
Losing your job (even temporarily) is a major loss and can cause feelings of grief, hopelessness, isolation, and depression. It is essential to prioritize self care at this time and put your physical and mental wellbeing first. During this time, make sure you are eating well, sleeping consistently and try practicing mindfulness or meditation.
In order to receive benefits from ICBC, you must follow all of your healthcare provider’s recommendations, including all medical exams and treatments. This is important to do in order to help along the healing process and it also gives you some structure that will help with your mental health and prevent isolation.
Therapy can be hugely beneficial for those missing work due to injury, however the cost often dissuades people from going, especially if they are also missing out on their regular income.
If you were injured in an accident and are missing work because of it, you may be entitled to compensation to help pay for therapy, medical expenses, and lost wages. At Hoogbruin and Company, we can help you get what you are owed.