According to the American Academy of Pain Medicine, approximately 100 million Americans experience chronic pain. Chronic pain is often caused from work injuries that can leave the sufferer feeling worthless and lonely. As a result, many of these victims fall into serious depression.
If you’ve suffered a work injury and are feeling lonely or unmotivated, consider the following tips:
- Exercise. Exercise is a proven stress reliever and can aid in relieving symptoms of depression. If you’re injured, start slow with a routine that you can handle such as walking.
- Go outside. A little vitamin D can go a long way. Try to get fresh air and sunshine as it can lift your mood tremendously.
- Find other interests. Perhaps work was your main hobby before becoming injured. If you’re unable to perform the tasks you once did, allow yourself to discover something new that you enjoy. Start a new hobby or join a group that enjoys the same things that you do.
- Don’t be afraid of medication. There are times that an antidepressant may become necessary. If medication is right for you, talk to your doctor about medications that can help your pain as well as your emotional state of mind.
- Find a doctor you trust. You must be able to trust your physician 100%. They should be supportive and understand the physical and emotional pain that you are experiencing. You may also need to seek the help of a counselor or psychiatrist to cope with this difficult time.
Losing a job due to injury can be completely devastating. Emotional stress and physical pain can lead to years of depression. If you have been injured on the job, you may be in need of finding an excellent workers’ compensation attorney.
Learn all you need to know about workers’ compensation.