Tips For Returning To Work After An Accident

YY*This is a collaborative post on tips for returning to work after an accident

Accidents are, practically by definition, impossible to predict. Something could happen to you when you least expect it, that completely turns your life on its head for a time. This could be an accident at work, in public or even at home that demands medical attention and a period of leave from work. Recovery is hard, but often the hardest part is coming out of recovery and back into your routine. What are some helpful ways to go about your return to work?

Do not rush when returning to work after an accident

This first tip is perhaps the most important: do not rush back to work. You might feel like you’re letting colleagues and superiors down by being away from work. You might be feeling bored and ready for a challenge again, or you might simply be nearing the end of your doctor’s note.

Whatever the situation, your return to work should only be dictated by your physical and mental health. A quick return to work could slow your recovery or even cause a regression in physical health. For example if you’ve suffered from back pain, it could damage your recovery if you push too quickly.

If money is the primary driver for your return to work, there are alternate means. For example, if the accident you suffered was not your fault, you may have civil routes to claiming compensation. The compensation money would consider lost wages, travel and care costs, amongst other things. Alternatively, you could contact loved ones for short-term support until you are well enough to return.

Seek therapy

If you suffer adverse mental health from your accident, therapy can be a good idea, irrespective of your return to work. But with specific regard to getting back to work, therapy can help unpick any anxieties about your return. Your employer may also be able to help you with this, either by providing their support network or through funding a therapist on your behalf.

Ask about employer support when returning to work

Your workplace should already be understanding and accommodating about your injury and return to work. You will likely have a programme of phased return offered to you, where you are phased back into full-time employment at a steady rate. 

Either way, you should speak to your HR department about any other provisions that could be made available to you. There might be some accommodations they could make for you temporarily, or you may have new disability needs for which you need to make a statutory application. Whatever your needs, your employer should know about them – just in case they can help.

Be open

Suffering an injury can be supremely isolating, and your return to work can feel akin to culture shock – especially if you have been largely recuperating alone. If you feel the urge to clam up about your experience or condition, you should try to resist that urge. Your colleagues will be on your side and more than happy to help if you encounter any issues or teething problems on your return.