Tips for Addressing PTSD After a Work Accident in Illinois

After suffering a work-related injury, your physical injuries are not the only wounds you need to heal. When you suffer a work-related injury, you may also have to deal with mental trauma. A work injury can cause severe psychological issues. One of the psychological issues people experience after a work-related injury is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

PTSD is a mental health issue triggered by a terrifying event. Work accidents, especially serious ones, can be terrifying. The sudden nature of a serious work accident can overwhelm a person’s ability to cope and process the experience. The physical pain, recovery process, and potential life changes can also contribute to an injured worker developing PTSD.

It is crucial to recognize ways of addressing or dealing with PTSD after a work accident. While every case is different, the following are some general suggestions on how to address PTSD after a work accident;

Learn About PTSD

If you are dealing with PTSD after a work accident, take time to learn what PTSD is, how PTSD impacts your life, and coping strategies. The following are just some of the effects associated with PTSD;

• Relieving the traumatic moment as if it were happening again
• Upsetting dreams or nightmares
• Repeated, unwanted, stressing memories of the traumatic event
• Avoiding people, places, or activities that remind you of the event

Awareness can empower you to manage the effects of PTSD better.

Seek Professional Help

One of the most crucial steps in addressing PTSD is speaking with a professional, such as a counselor or therapist.  A licensed professional can guide you and offer support tailored to your unique situation. A professional will be able to give you the tools you need to move on with your life.

Seek Support From Friends, Family Members, and Coworkers

When dealing with PTSD after a work accident, you should try not to isolate yourself. Overcoming your trauma may be easier if you have a support system. Reach out to friends, family, coworkers, or anyone else you feel comfortable reaching out to. Having a support system can offer empathy, understanding, and encouragement. Even if someone has no useful advice for you, just having them there to listen to you can make a huge difference.

Self-Care

Taking care of yourself can help you address PTSD. Self-care may entail, among other things, participating in activities you enjoy, such as reading and listening to music, eating well, sleeping enough, and spending time with loved ones. However, you shouldn’t push yourself too hard. Take it easy.

Communicate to Your Employer About Workplace Accommodations

Finally, before resuming work, talk to your employer about necessary workplace accommodations or modifications that could support your well-being. In Illinois, after experiencing a work injury, your right to reasonable accommodations is protected by the Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As long as you meet the eligibility requirements, you are entitled to reasonable accommodations as long as the accommodations don’t impose undue hardship on the employer.

Contact a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

After suffering a work-related injury, you may be eligible to recover workers’ compensation benefits. Our qualified Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer at Connolly Injury Law can help you determine if you have a valid claim. We can help you recover the benefits you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.