Returning to work after a workplace injury or accident might seem like a gigantic task, but it’s not always the case. Many people have managed to get back to work even after a brain injury by ensuring they followed the process and listened to the experts. If you are also wondering if it is possible to return to work after a workplace injury or how to return to work after a brain injury successfully. Here are some simple strategies that might work. 

• Get Support

If you plan to return to work, the first thing you need to do is get support. Talk to your doctor and other experts like a vocational return to work counselor about your plan. Let them guide you on whether you can return to work, what work is suitable for you, and how to make things easier for yourself. They are your well-wishers who always want the best for you. 

• Be Ready

Another thing you need to ensure to return to work after a brain injury is that you are ready. Being ready doesn’t just mean wanting to get back to work. You should be physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of returning to work and dealing with all the changes you might have to face when you return to work. Again, let the experts measure your readiness before talking to your employer or applying for a new job. 

• Don’t Overdo It

Many people become over-eager when they get permission to return to work. As a result, they overstretch themselves and do things they cannot comfortably do. You should refrain from making this mistake and take things slowly. Also, remember that a brain injury might have impacted your decision-making skills, so avoid making any huge decisions from day one. Work at the pace your body and mind allow, and don’t ignore the warning signs. It is also wise to take more breaks than usual. 

• Ask What You Need

If you need something, be sure to ask for it. For instance, if you have trouble reading a report due to your injury, ask for more time to analyze it. Do not be unrealistic and put a lot of pressure on yourself. Please don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed to ask for little things from your colleagues/boss as they will be eager to help you and won’t judge you.  

• Be Positive

Maintaining a positive attitude is essential while recovering from any injury and returning to work. The hurdles will seem menial and more enthusiastic when you have a positive attitude. You will also be willing to find positivity in a negative situation. Remember, companies prefer employees who stay positive rather than those who complain all the time. 

• Practice at Home

Before you return to work, practice at home. For instance, if you have a desk job, sit at a desk at home and pretend that you are working. Similarly, if you are a coder, read up about the codes you used to work with and ensure that you are not blank your first day back. 

Need More Help?

If you need more help regarding how to return to work after a brain injury, then you can connect with the team of Laura M. Wilson & Associates Inc. We help you return to work with your previous employer when you are ready or help you get a job you will love in an organization that will value you. We also offer constant support until you learn to thrive in your new job. 

We provide a wide array of services such as SJDB Service, RTWSP Service, Expert Witness, Vocational Evaluation, Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling Services, and Transferable Skills Analysis. Our vocational rehabilitation counselors will decide which services are right for you and offer a solution that helps you return to work and retain your job. To know more about how we can help, book an appointment here or call us toll-free on (800) 531-5608.

Reference:

https://www.headway.org.uk/about-brain-injury/individuals/brain-injury-and-me/6-strategies-for-getting-back-to-work-after-brain-injury/