The Coach SpaceWhether you’re suffering from whiplash after a minor car collision or you’re coming to terms with a life-changing injury following a major accident, you can be traumatised by what happened. Worries about once-easy routines and uncertainty about what the future holds are naturally a drain on mental energy, and over time if left unchecked can lead to depression.
Follow these simple tips to safeguard your mental wellness after an accident. Having a positive outlook will help you recover more quickly and give you the confidence to return to your routines.
1 – Seek support
Remember that there is no right or wrong way to feel after an accident. Whether you’re angry, sad, hopeless or feeling fine, seek support in helping you process the incident and look to the future.
If you’re unable to work and feeling financial pressure after an accident that wasn’t your fault, you could look into making a no win no fee claim for compensation to relieve money anxiety. Doctors can give reassuring advice on coping with the physical effects of your injury while therapists can support your mental outlook. Even talking to friends and family about any fears you may have can be enormously beneficial.
2 – Get plenty of rest
There are strong links between sleep and mental health, so as strange as it may seem doing nothing but resting could be the fastest road to emotional recovery. Our body goes into a state of repair when we switch off our mind, giving the brain a chance to process memories and emotions which will help to calm anxious thoughts you have during the day. Getting plenty of sleep has also been shown to ward off depression and anxiety disorders.
PTSD can disrupt sleep, typically triggering a replay of scary events or nightmares when we close our eyes. If you’re struggling with this, speak to your GP about temporary sleep aids.
3 – Nourish your body
The mind-body connection has been proven time and again. To bolster your mental health, you should find ways to improve your physical well-being.
Nourish your body with good food during your recovery. Protein will aid muscle repair; dairy has calcium for strong bones, and fruits and vegetables contain a range of essential vitamins and minerals that boost your whole body function. Hydration is of the utmost importance: water aids most of the body, bringing nutrients to cells, getting rid of waste, maintaining an optimal body temperature and protecting your joints and organs.
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4 – Take exercise
As well as paying attention to your diet, you should also focus on getting as much exercise as possible to keep your body moving, even if this is limited to stretches or walks. Being fitter gives your body a better chance of effective recovery, and regular exercise has been shown to benefit your mental wellness too.
Exercising for just 30 minutes a day can:
- Lower your cortisol levels so you feel less stressed
- Reduce feelings of anxiety, anger and frustration
- Release endorphins, one of the ‘happy hormones’
- Make you more focused and productive
- Banish irrational worries and provide a fresh perspective
- Inspire a better appetite for food – and life
You can embrace exercise in many ways to suit your current capabilities and fitness level. Consider cardio if running and jumping isn’t out of the question for a fast-acting endorphins release and to strengthen your heart and lungs. Lift weights for greater bone density and a sense of achievement. Practise yoga for the mindfulness that comes with slow movement, or join a team sport for uplifting interactions.
5 – Prioritise self-care
Finally, take the opportunity to be selfish. You’ve been through a difficult time, and while staying busy can be an effective temporary distraction, you need time to unwind and process the situation to recover properly.
Self-care looks different for everyone. Tune into what makes you happy and relaxed and add these activities into your weekly routine. Common examples of stress-relieving activities include walking in the fresh air, reading, cooking, drawing, having hot baths and meditation.
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