4 Tips for Coping With Grief From a Catastrophic Injury in Colorado

 Posted on July 16, 2020 in Personal Injury

You may have recently heard of catastrophic injuries for the first time, especially with regard to brain damage. Recent discussions within the NFL surrounding traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy—TBI and CTE, respectively have brought catastrophic injuries into daily discourse and increased awareness of such injuries, many of which are suffered in car accidents. As you may have guessed, catastrophic injuries are among the most severe a person can suffer, including—but not limited to—“… those causing permanent severe functional disability, and those causing severe head or neck trauma with no permanent disability.” While emphasizing head, spine, neck, and brain trauma, many debilitating injuries are included within this category, up to and including death. For victims seeking compensation, an experienced personal injury attorney can help determine if a catastrophic injury was caused by another party’s negligence.

Coping Strategies for Serious Injuries

Beyond the physical trauma, a catastrophic injury-induced loss of function or disability can cause serious, lasting mental anguish, and victims may find themselves experiencing the famous five stages of grief. Although not every victim of a catastrophic injury will necessarily experience all five stages, here is what the average victim may experience along with strategies for coping with the effects of their injury:

1. Denial – When dealing with a catastrophic injury, denial can be dangerous, according to Jim Taylor, Ph.D.: “By denying you are injured, you can exacerbate the injury…”. In addition, although the state of Colorado has a two-year statute of limitations on most personal injury claims, the period begins to run when the injury is first discovered. Denial can not only intensify the effects of a catastrophic injury but can actually cause you to miss your window to make a legal claim for compensation.

2. Anger – Injury victims who “use positive self-talk and set goals for their rehab experience ‘exceptional recovery.’” Strive to reach these goals and reward yourself for reaching them to maintain a positive mental attitude.

3. Bargaining – Although setting rehab goals is important, it is equally important not to overexert the affected area. Rushing the long rehabilitation process with extra or more intense sessions can ultimately do more harm than good.

4. Depression – If you are in distress and require immediate support, call 1-800-273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for free, 24/7 care, or dial 9-1-1 if you are in a state of crisis or emergency. Mild depressive symptoms may be alleviated for some by filling idle time during your recovery with new hobbies, activities, or even volunteering.

Although the road to acceptance will vary from person to person, many victims of catastrophic injuries will find themselves experiencing some of these difficult emotions. For victims suffering from major depressive symptoms, or otherwise struggling to accept a catastrophic injury, consider visiting a licensed mental health professional for grief counseling. It is also imperative to seek legal counsel to explore your options for seeking damages if your injury was caused by a drunk driver or a negligent property owner.

Contact a Fort Collins Personal Injury Lawyer

A mental health professional may help alleviate some of the mental burden resulting from a catastrophic injury, but a qualified Larimer County personal injury attorney may be able to help alleviate some of the financial burdens. If you or someone you love has suffered a catastrophic injury, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. at 970-225-2190 to have your claim examined by our experienced legal team free of charge.

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_injury
https://www.active.com/running/articles/how-to-cope-with-the-5-stages-of-injury-grief