Recently, you injured yourself at work, but, thankfully, your employer carries workers’ compensation. That said, you have to take care of both your mental health and your physical health to make a full recovery and return to work as soon as possible.
SFM offers insights on how you can avoid the risk of depression that can result after an injury. Improving your mental health can go a long way in helping you transition back to work easier and faster.
Ask about assistance programs
Depending on your employer, there may be an assistance program available for employees experiencing mental health struggles. Understandably, you may be hesitant to open up and let your employer know about your mental health, but doing so could help you in multiple areas of your life, not just in the workplace.
Ask about return-to-work programs
If your employer does not have an assistance program, there could be a return-to-work program to take advantage of. Such programs are ideal for injured employees who are not yet fully healed, but can carry out some of their job duties. That way, you can feel more secure about your former position and your recovery progress while earning a paycheck again.
Keep in touch with your employer
Hopefully, your employer will keep in touch with you, but you can also do your part to keep in touch with your employer. Specifically, keep your supervisor or manager updated on your recovery, and see if you can do any work from home in your current physical condition.
Take steps to both avoid and respond to depression, even if you only suspect that your workplace injury triggered depression. Do not underestimate the connection between mental health and physical health.