There is an understanding in the medical field that stress plays a major role in how an illness or injury is perceived. For example, someone who is in great health with little financial or social stress may recover well compared to someone who is injured and has no support and financial concerns. Stress puts a strain on the body, weakening immunity and stressing the body’s muscles and joints.
Have you ever seen a person’s eyes twitching when they talk to you? It could be due to stress. That’s one of many common signs that stress is getting to someone and becoming overwhelming.
Some people struggle with other physical manifestations of stress including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Hives
- Severe headaches
- Stomach cramps
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Diarrhea
The body does have long-term responses to stress, like the development of neck and shoulder pain, chronic fatigue or high blood pressure.
Mood problems can be secondary to injury
Something that your attorney will account for when seeking a settlement on your behalf is how your mood may be affected by an injury. That isn’t just the sadness or let down you feel from being injured. It’s the reality that many people who suffer from life-changing injuries do develop anxiety and depression. They may have trouble coping and could have issues to contend with including:
- Identity problems
- Issues with feelings of self-worth
- Depression or suicidal thoughts
Stress also hinders healing. Someone who isn’t eating or sleeping correctly is more likely to have trouble with their healing. Good nutrition is an important part of healing, as is getting the right amount of sleep to heal.
How can you handle stress after an injury?
Handling stress all comes down to learning good ways to cope. Some examples of things you can do to manage your stress include:
- Setting goals for your recovery, such as getting through a surgery, and celebrating meeting that goal.
- Focusing on positive things. For example, if you are dealing with two broken legs but have more time with your family, try to see the positive that you’re able to have time to build those relationships, even during a difficult time in your life.
- Getting informed. The more you learn about your condition and the treatments that can help, the better in control you will feel as you work toward your health goals.
Your attorney’s job is to help you receive compensation, so you can focus on reducing your stress and healing fully.