Seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering by filing a personal injury claim can be an emotional process. However, following some key self-care tips can help you keep your stress levels in check as you wait for your case to be resolved.
Focus on Your Health
Attending all of your recommended doctor appointments will help you recover from your injuries as soon as possible while supporting your claim for damages. Other tips to help you feel your best include:
- Eat a balanced diet with lean protein, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Stay hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water per day.
- Get a full night’s rest.
- Exercise as much as you are able to given your current physical limitations.
Don’t Ignore the Mental Health Effects of the Accident
Often, people who have been injured in car accidents are so worried about recovering from their physical injuries that they ignore accompanying signs of mental distress. However, symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD need to be dealt with as soon as possible. Ignoring your mental health can have serious consequences.
Writing in a journal or talking to a trusted friend are great ways to help process the wide range of emotions you may be feeling about the accident. However, you may also wish to consult a therapist or seek the assistance of a support group.
The cost of mental health care can be included in a personal injury claim just as you would seek reimbursement for other medical services. These damages can also affect your pain and suffering compensation. Ask your attorney for details.
Socialize
It’s understandable to be less eager to socialize when you’re injured and dealing with financial stress from being unable to work. However, cutting yourself off from people who care about you isn’t always prudent. Studies have consistently shown that social support is a vital part of coping with stressful situations.
You may not be up for dinner at a trendy restaurant or a shopping spree at your favorite department store, but enjoying takeout and a movie or going for a walk outside can have the same benefits. Making a meaningful connection doesn’t require a lot of time or money. The people who care about you won’t mind if you aren’t able to keep up your previous social schedule. They just want to help.
Although socializing with friends and family can be a wonderful way to relieve stress when your personal injury case is pending, be cautious about your use of social media during this time. Do not discuss the case or the extent of your injuries on social media sites, since these posts could be used as evidence against you.
Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Don’t base your settlement expectations on information you’ve seen on TV or heard from a friend. Have an open and honest discussion with your attorney about the value of your case and any factors that could complicate the process of obtaining a fair settlement. There are many variables to consider in determining how much your case is worth, so it’s impossible for someone who isn’t familiar with the specifics of your claim to determine what a fair settlement would involve.
Knowing what you can realistically expect will help you to better plan for whatever the future holds. If you have extenuating circumstances, such as a pending divorce, bankruptcy, or unpaid child support debt, your attorney may recommend consulting additional experts to help you better prepare for the financial impact of your settlement.
Be Patient
Most personal injury claims are settled out of court, but the settlement process can take several months. In cases involving serious injuries, it may take one year or more to resolve the claim.
Being patient isn’t easy, but hiring an experienced personal injury attorney should give you the confidence you need to go about your day knowing that your best interests are being protected. Your attorney will focus on building the strongest possible case while you devote your attention to healing from your injuries and moving forward with your life.
Have You Been Injured In A Louisiana Car Accident?
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident you need to speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Alexandria office directly at 318.541.8188 to schedule your free consultation.