When a loved one has been injured at work, it can be stressful for everyone close to them. It can sometimes be challenging to know what to do. The person with the injury is going to need help at some point during their recovery. Plus, depending on the seriousness of the injury, help may be required for the rest of their life. The injury is bound to leave your loved one wondering how they’re going to adjust. As a family unit who love and care for them,everyone involved is going to be able to provide both emotional and physical support. Here are some of the ways you can help make your loved one’s life more bearable.

• Provide Emotional Support

Your loved one is going to be feeling a range of emotions as well as physical pain. Anxiety, depression, frustration, guilt and bitterness are just some of the emotions they’ll be feeling. The important thing for family members to realise is that these negative emotions aren’t directed at you, although it may feel like it at times. Try to be good listeners and allow them to talk through their frustrations and fears. There’s no need for any false reassurances; in fact,there are going to be times when it’s better to say nothing and just listen. Create a calm and safe atmosphere in your home and let them have space when it’s needed. The emotional support of their loved ones is going to help their recovery. As you help them emotionally, you also can research ways that are useful for managing pain, which is causing the overwhelming emotions.

• Make Sure They Don’t Overdo Things

It’s often tough for people with injuries to accept the severity of their condition and the impact it’s going to have on their life. Don’t allow your loved one to exert themselves too much and encourage them to rest as much as possible. Providing physical support when they first come home is crucial as it will help to speed up their recovery. However, as they recover,it’s important for you to help them regain some of their independence.

 â€¢ Help with Changes in Lifestyle and Diet

It does depend on the type and severity of the injury, but some life changes may be necessary. Members of the family are going to be able to help with these lifestyle changes. If they’re no longer able to drive, for example, another member of the family will have to take over driving duties. You’ll also be able to help them find new hobbies if those they previously enjoyed are impossible. 

• Encourage them to Seek Professional Help

When someone is seriously injured, professional help is available to help them recover. Some medical practitioners can provide care to help them get better. They may also be entitled to claim industrial injury compensation; in which case, you’ll need to help them keep their appointments. 

• Don’t Take Over and Let Them do Things for Themselves

You want to do the best you can to help your loved one recover, but it’s a fine line between that and doing too much for them. They’re going to need your help to start with, but you have to encourage them to do things for themselves. 

There are many things you can do to help a loved one recover from an injury. Any support you’re able to give them as a family plays a crucial part in their recovery.

Brought to you by our friend, Carol.