You do not have to make millions in endorsements or win multiple Olympic medals to consider yourself an athlete. Whether you enjoy doing 5k bubble runs with a close group of friends or you hit the open road alone to train for ultra marathons, you’re an athlete as long as you consider yourself to be one. And if training, competing, or just exercising with friends is part of your everyday life, sustaining severe injuries could result in serious emotional turmoil.
According to Active, athletes who sustain injuries can expect to go through the same five stages of grief that those who lose a loved one do: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Until you experience all five stages and find a way to break through each one, you will be unable to make peace with the healing process or with your new normal should the prognosis include lasting effects like chronic pain or paralysis.
If you sustained serious injuries in a car accident that was not your fault and you want to hold the liable party accountable for your damages, contact Heilman Law Group. You may be entitled to compensation to pay for physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, and other damages. Call 601-914-1025 to schedule a case evaluation with a car accident attorney in Jackson.
Read on to learn a few tips for coping with the emotional aftermath of sustaining serious injuries as an athlete:
- Take Advantage of the Extra Time
Since working out is no longer part of your daily routine, you probably have a lot more free time on your hands. Take advantage of your recovery by making the most of it.
Pick up a hobby you have always wanted to try, take a weekend trip to visit loved ones you haven’t seen in a while, or volunteer at a local charity. Just make sure the activity you choose is peaceful and fulfilling because taking on additional stress could inhibit the healing process.
- Set Realistic Goals
Depending on the extent of your injuries, you may be out of commission for a few weeks, a few months, or even longer. Regardless of the specific prognosis, talk to your doctor about realistic recovery goals that you can work toward, and then document your progress. When you are feeling especially overwhelmed at the mountain that lies ahead, review how far you’ve come to get a little morale boost.
- Try Cross Training
In the running world, cross training refers to doing an activity other than running in order to increase strength and flexibility, especially in muscles that running does not use. If you cannot take part in your sport of choice while you recover, try something that you can do like swimming, yoga, or Tai Chi.
If you’re an athlete who sustained serious injuries in a car accident, you have enough on your mind without having to worry about filing an injury claim. Turn to Heilman Law Group for quality legal guidance during every step of the claims process.
Call 601-914-1025 to schedule a consultation with a Jackson accident law attorney. You can learn more about car accident claims in Mississippi by visiting USAttorneys.com.
