When you’re a dad, you might feel that your ultimate role is to be a provider for your family. Yes, we’ve made a lot of progress as far as how we see gender roles, but if you’re out of work because of an injury, it can still be difficult to deal with, not only physically but also mentally.

The first thing to remember if you are hurt at work is that you should take advantage of the workers’ compensation benefits available to you. Too often people view it as a handout rather than what it is, which is an insurance benefit earned by workers.

Along with making sure you take advantage of the financial resources available to you if you’re hurt and can’t work, you have to take care of your mental health.

The following are things to know about avoiding the potential for depression to occur if you are hurt and can’t work for a period of time.

Unemployment Depression

Even if you are still technically employed, if you’re injured and can’t work for a period of time, the mental effects can be similar to what you would deal with if you were unemployed.

We recently saw the serious impact of unemployment on mental health because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Unemployment depression can be something short-term that happens just while you aren’t working, but it can also turn into clinical depression that is longer-lasting and perhaps more difficult to treat.

It’s important to recognize the signs of depression so that if you do see them in yourself, you can proactively seek help.

Depression is treatable, and it may require therapy, medication or a combination.

Symptoms of clinical depression can include changes in appetite, insomnia, low energy, and problems experiencing pleasure.

Men tend to experience symptoms of depression differently than women sometimes. For example, men are more likely to rely on drugs or alcohol if they’re feeling depressed. Men are also more likely to be irritable and frustrated, as well as angry.

Some Treatments May Be Covered Under Worker’s Compensation

Something important to realize if you do notice that you’re experiencing symptoms of depression is that many of the treatments may be covered under your worker’s compensation. In order to ensure that you get maximum compensation for your claim, it is a good idea to seek legal assistance. According to https://personalinjuryattorney-fresno.com/, the professionals are well-versed with related laws and use their negotiating skills and help you make fair settlement decisions.

That can mean coverage for medications like antidepressants as well as psychotherapy.

Find a New Sense of Purpose During Your Recovery

It’s important to have a sense of purpose in your life. If you’re out of work because of an injury or any other reason, it’s a good idea to redefine your purpose for that period of time.

For example, maybe you dedicate yourself to caring for your children full-time, and that becomes your purpose.

While your daily purpose might not be what it once was, you can still find something that drives you to feel your best even when you’re out of work and recovering from an injury.

Set Goals for Yourself

Depending on how long you might be out of work, you should set small, manageable goals for yourself during that time.

Goals are a good way to structure the time you’re off of work. Don’t make them huge goals, however, because then not achieving them might make you feel worse. Make them goals that are realistic for you.

Practice Self-Care

Men tend to be less likely to actively practice self-care when they’re out of work, but it’s an important part of your mental health.

This means that you get enough sleep, eat well and exercise as much as your injury will allow.

Try to rely on healthy coping skills and avoid unhealthy ones such as alcohol or overeating.

Rely On Your Social Support Network

Going from working full-time to not working at all can completely upend life as you know it. Don’t bottle up your emotions, however.

Instead, you should lean on your social support network including your partner, family, and friends.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or depressed, talk to them about it.

Create a Daily Schedule For Yourself

Finally, some of the value that comes from working is that it gives you a structure and routine to your day.

Try to replicate this by having a schedule you follow each day, even when you’re not working.

This might include going to bed at the same time each night, spending time with your kids for a certain period of time, and doing things around the house, at least as much as you can with your specific injury.