Suffering an injury at work may leave you feeling hesitant to go back. Finding the motivation and confidence to return may take time and require the support of others.
Timing your return appropriately may aid in a successful transition back to the workplace. Knowing how to tell the right time to revisit the idea of working can help you determine if you feel prepared for this next step.
Physical health
Some injuries may cause permanent disability. Serious life changes such as paralysis, may reduce your mobility and prevent you from doing your former job. In such circumstances, you may consider an alternative career choice that better accommodates your new physical condition. Vocational rehabilitation may provide you with resources to help you identify transferable skills, as well as help you develop new skills to aid in finding another job.
If your injury does not cause a permanent disability, you may have the option of returning to your former job as you continue to recover. Working with your employer, you can develop a return-to-work plan to help track your progress and provide an incentive to make a full recovery.
Emotional recovery
The emotional effects of a workplace injury can sometimes take longer to process than any physical injury. According to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, post-traumatic recovery may change the way you think and process emotions. Adjusting to the often unexpected emotions that arise could impact your ability to focus at work. Allowing yourself enough time to rebuild confidence is paramount to your success in returning to work.
Utilizing the resources available to you, returning to work may feel a bit less daunting. Regularly monitoring your emotional and physical recovery can help you know the best timing for returning to work.
