There can be many challenges to managing life after medical negligence, especially if the mistreatment caused permanent consequences. If you’re struggling to get back on track with your life or are feeling unlike yourself, try out the tips in this handy guide to aid your recovery.
Common side effects
It’s normal to feel different after being the victim of medical negligence, both physically and mentally.
Mental side effects of medical negligence include anxiety and depression, and in some cases even long-lasting psychological conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Depending on the nature and severity of the negligence, you could have physical side effects as well. This might include permanent pain, disfigurement, and restricted mobility.
Coping with these side effects is testing and can lead to further physical and mental challenges.
Steps to recovery
It might take time, but you will adjust to your new way of life once you’ve taken the essential steps to recovery.
Embrace your grief
First and foremost, it’s vital to acknowledge how you’re feeling rather than fighting against it. This is one of the essential steps to coping with grief and will ultimately help you to feel better faster.
It might seem odd to be grieving when there is no death involved, but remember that you’re mourning your old life and potentially previous visions of the future. It’s natural to feel depressed and angry, and to swing between denial and blame.
Look into healthy emotional outlets such as journalling, sketching, and simply letting yourself cry.
Ask for support
You might feel uncomfortable reaching out to others, but don’t hesitate in asking for support. Dealing with a major life change is always easier when the burden is shared.
Help from friends and family is invaluable, whether this is assistance with jobs or just company and conversation. Simply voicing your emotions can make you feel lighter and more positive.
If you’re able to care for an animal, you could consider getting a pet. Having a pet is beneficial to your mental health, providing a sense of security and companionship if you feel isolated and relieving general anxiety.
Explore new pastimes
The negligent medical care you received may have made it impossible for you to continue with old hobbies. Naturally this will be devasting, but bear in mind that with each door that closes another opens.
Try to see this as an opportunity to explore new pastimes. You could find a passion that you might have never discovered! Creative outlets such as writing, painting and reading are particularly healing.
Physical nourishment
Your mental wellness is absolutely the priority in your journey to recovery, but remember that this is bolstered by good physical nourishment.
Ensure that you’re getting plenty of sleep each night, hydrating properly throughout the day, and eating nutrient-rich food. All of these factors will help to stabilise your mood and protect you against periods of despair.
You should also exercise as much as possible, even if this is based around physio and rehabilitation or gentle movement such as yoga. Regular exercise can make you feel happier and increase your energy levels while boosting your physical health.