No one prepares for injuries, especially the ones that leave us in pain and in broken parts. But injuries are part of life experiences. Almost everyone will at some point in their life experience injury. For some people, it could be mild while for others, it could be severe.
Apart from the physical pains we get from injuries, it also takes a toll on our emotional side, too.
For anyone dealing with a broken leg, there is usually this depression that comes with it. And this is understandable because a broken leg deprives you of doing many things you normally could.
Things like swimming, dancing, easy and free movement, running and other activities that involve your legs are usually limited when you experience a leg fracture.
The frustration that comes with the inability to do these common activities or have your leg in a cast is what leaves one with experiencing depressive symptoms or what is usually referred to as adjustment disorder.
Now, let’s throw more light on what this condition actually means.
What is adjustment disorder?
Adjustment disorder happens when someone finds it difficulty or encounters challenges adjusting to what he or she used to be able to do as a result of an injury, major loss, or other life challenges.
When unexpected events happen in a person’s life, like a broken leg, it takes some time for the person to come to terms with reality. Therefore, it is common for such a person to fall into depression.
Symptoms of adjustment disorder
- Anxiety, stress or feeling worried most of the time
- Not enjoying the things you usually enjoy
- Having suicidal thoughts
- Trouble falling asleep
- Shying away from financial obligations
- Avoiding socializing with people
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of appetite
For many people, what stresses them out are just temporary things or situations which they learn to cope with as time goes on. Some of these symptoms listed above will go away or at least reduce once your stress level reduces.
However, for some people the stressful events they experience are unavoidable and this makes it difficult for them to get over the emotional struggles they go through.
What to do when you are dealing with adjustment disorder
- Break some sweat
It is no longer news that exercise is a great way to ease off stress. And not just that, it works wonders for when you are going through emotional challenges. I know that right now, working out may be the last thing on your mind, but breaking some sweat releases the feel-good hormones in your body and will go a long way in positively affecting your mood. And this could be as little as walking around your neighborhood.
Of course, you should take into consideration how severe your injury is as exercise may exacerbate your condition. You should first consult with your doctor before getting involved in any form of exercise.
- Reach out to family and friends
You may not know it yet, but reaching out to your family and friends when you are going through depression can offer you some relief. There is nothing as therapeutic as speaking to someone about your situation. Chances are that they already want to help out but need a signal from you that you are willing to share what you are going through. These people can help in your healing process by helping you recall the good times so as to build your hope of things getting better.
Even if it is helping out with little chores or running to the store for you, your circle of friends and family can provide you with the much-needed help you need.
- Online support group
Another great place to get help is reaching out to online groups that deal with what you are going through. Reading other peoples stories and sharing yours can help in relieving some of the stress you are going through. It also reassures you that you are not alone and that if others are surviving with it, you can too!
You will not only likely get emotional support, but you may also discover hidden strengths that you never knew you had. Such groups can be found on social media like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, forums, and many other platforms. A simple search on Google will present you with a lot of options.
- Spend time on the things you love
If you have a broken leg, for example, it does not mean you should stay away from the things you love to do. Doing more of the things you enjoy doing can help you feel better and also get your mind off the worry or depression that comes with having an injury. Reading, watching a movie, or doing whatever it is that you enjoy doing or have been meaning to do can do you a world of good.
- Get a scooter for broken foot
Getting a scooter for broken foot will not only help with your healing but also with your mental health. A scooter can help you regain your mobility to a great extent so that you can resume your daily activities. If nothing, you will at least be relieved from having to depend on people for the things you usually do for yourself. It may also promote faster healing, heightened mental health, and perspective.
- Seek professional help
While all the points mentioned above can help you deal with adjustment disorder, if you are still struggling, then you might need help from a professional. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a therapist who can help you dig deep into your feelings for better understanding and management.
Conclusion
Whatever you are going through right now, always remember that it is not the end of the world. Try to embrace the situation and be willing to make the best out of it. Be open about your feelings, get all the help you can, and try to stay positive.