Jan 7, 2021

Tips on Dealing With Pain, Stress, and Depression After a Work Injury

According to Healthline, chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts for at least 12 weeks. For some people, dealing with chronic pain can be consuming, leading to increased stress and depression symptoms. This can ultimately worsen or prolong the pain, creating a cycle of pain, depression, and stress that can be difficult to break.

If you’ve been seriously injured at your job and are struggling with chronic pain-related depression, we want you to know that you are not alone. While there may not be an instant cure for chronic pain, there are some things you can do to manage it and relieve symptoms.

Take Good Care of Your Body

When your body is trying to recover after an injury, it’s important to take good care of it and do everything you can to reduce your pain and improve your chances of a quick recovery. Here are some ways that you can give your body what it needs during this time:

  • Eat well
  • Get enough sleep
  • Exercise regularly (if necessary, with modifications)
  • Stretch
  • Meditate to reduce stress levels

Continue Your Daily Activities

Chronic pain can, understandably, make it difficult to continue living your “regular life” and socialize with others. However, isolating yourself can give you a more negative outlook on your condition, increase your sensitivity to pain, and worsen depression symptoms.

As much as you are capable, try to continue on with your daily activities, even if it just means being present for events and taking a less active role. Doing so can boost your mood and help decrease your stress levels.

Identify Stress Triggers

It’s a good idea to keep a journal that you can use to keep track of how stress and depression are impacting your pain levels. Once you are able to write down and identify stress triggers, you can find better ways to find relief and eliminate activities that cause increased pain levels.

Journaling also has therapeutic benefits and can allow those struggling with depression to make sense of their emotions and lessen anxiety.

Seek Support

It’s important to know that you are not alone during your struggles with pain, stress, and depression. Friends, family, and support groups can offer comfort during difficult times and provide support where you may be struggling in your daily life.

Always communicate with your physician regarding your quality of life and depression symptoms so they are able to provide you with the appropriate care.

If you need assistance pursuing a workers’ compensation case for your work-related injury, the Atlanta workers’ comp attorneys at Hansford McDaniel – Workers’ Compensation Attorneys can help you pursue maximum benefits for the ordeal you have been through. You may also be entitled to pain and suffering damages if certain circumstances apply.

Contact our firm at 770-922-3660 to speak with our legal team for free today.