A personal injury can exacerbate emotional distress any time of year, but it can be particularly challenging in winter months. Injured individuals need to address both physical and mental recovery.
Understanding the Link Between Injury and Seasonal Depression
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a regular seasonal pattern of depression during fall and winter months. Symptoms may include significant fatigue, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, thoughts of death or suicide, craving more carbs, sad mood, and sleeping more than usual.
Shorter days and less sunlight contribute to SAD. Lower light exposure disrupts both sleep cycles and serotonin levels. Physical limitations such as reduced mobility can lead to isolation and negative emotions. The emotional toll of chronic pain or slow recovery can cause frustration and sadness.
Be on the lookout for changes in sleep patterns, fatigue, low motivation, and loss of interest. Withdrawing from loved ones, health anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness about injury recovery are additional symptoms specific to post-injury depression.
Medication and/or therapy can help mitigate symptoms. Make sure healthcare providers are aware of any symptoms.
Tips for Managing Seasonal Depression After an Injury
Getting light exposure through spending time outdoors during daylight hours or a light therapy lamp can help mitigate seasonal depression symptoms. Staying connected with others can be an important way to combat isolation. Phone calls, video chats, and online support groups for injury recovery are some great ways to connect with others.
Try to maintain a routine with a consistent wake-up and sleep schedule. Build physical therapy exercises into the day to keep moving. Follow a balanced diet and make sure to get gentle exercise like using a stationary bike, walking, or stretching as physical limitations allow.
Providing Support
Recovering from injuries is challenging and often impacts daily life in unexpected ways, so be patient and offer emotional support without judgement. Encourage professional help if needed and celebrate recovery milestones, no matter how minor.
Mental and emotional recovery from an injury is just as critical as physical healing. If your loved one is experiencing depression, seek help early to avoid long-term struggles.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
