An auto accident can be very hard on the mind and body. Added to the broken limbs, risk of concussion and other serious factors, the shock of the accident brings its own kind of stress. Of course, you should always leave the healing of serious bodily injury to the medical experts. However, stress itself can slow or stop the healing of the body. It’s important to deal with the stress that is a common aftermath of an auto accident. Here are some ways to facilitate healing by reducing stress.
Reach Out To Helpful People
Although we all like to consider ourselves independent, the time after an accident is probably the worst time to withdraw from others. Ask for help from others on important daily activities. Share your feelings about the accident with a friend, or if necessary, a counselor. Negative and even fearful thoughts are normal after an accident, but it is important to talk about them with someone you trust.
Slow Down
Post-accident is a good time to reflect on the things that are really important in your life. Re-establish a spiritual connection, and take some time to get adjusted to the new daily routine, which may be much different from your old one. Reset your priorities to include the things that matter most to you. This will help you to keep your mind focus on something positive to keep you occupied during this restful time.
Stay Active
Establish a daily exercise routine. Exercise is healthy for the body and mind. If you are handicapped because of the accident, there are exercises that can be done from a wheelchair or even when laying down. Your physical therapist will be able to guide you on the exercises that are right for your current condition.
Maintain A Healthy Diet
Depression can lead to loss of appetite, but it’s important to maintain a healthy diet, especially when you are trying to recover from injuries. Eat regular meals, and try to incorporate foods into your meals with important stress-reducing vitamin B in them, such as seafood, low-fat dairy products, and whole grain foods. Try to stay away from foods with too much sugar and salt in them.
Establish New Social Connections
Connecting with others is the best way to recover quickly from an illness. Find a social group that relates to you where you are right now. Many people find that volunteering increases friendships and gives them a renewed sense of direction after an accident.
Let Professionals Handle The Difficult Problems
If you are having trouble settling insurance claims from your insurance company or the offending party in an accident, consult a personal injury lawyer. They will act as a legal advocate on your behalf during your recovery from injuries, to help with medical payments, hospital stays and other important expenses. According to this Spokane blog, working with a personal injury attorney can help you get a fair settlement.
Recovery from an accident can be a long process, but it can happen much more quickly by paying attention to these important basics.
