After sustaining a TBI, one of the main hurdles for survivors is returning to their old job or finding a new job. This may sound easy enough, but it may not be so simple for many TBI survivors.
A serious brain injury may cause both physical and cognitive disabilities and can strip away basic skills that are essential to most types of jobs. Many TBI survivors may experience:
Extreme fatigue
Memory loss
Mood swings
Communication difficulties
Emotional difficulties
Because of this, it can be a challenge to retain a meaningful job after sustaining a TBI. Below, we discuss tips for finding a job after a TBI and what jobs may be best for these individuals.
Work With Your Employer and Doctor
If your doctor recommends that you set restrictions at work, communicate these to your employer or potential employer. Allow yourself extra time to complete tasks and prioritize what needs to get done. If you are finding this difficult, you can request additional time or support services. However, you shouldn’t do any job that you are not ready for.
Familiarize Yourself
Before taking a job, familiarize yourself with the employer’s policies on time off and rehabilitation. Once you do start working, you may not be able to able to immediately dive into work. It’s okay to start small. Set small goals for yourself as you learn more about your new role and new work environment.
Talk to Family, Friends, and Co-Workers
While it’s easy to feel alone during this process, it’s important to remember that you have a strong support system in family, friends, and coworkers. You can talk to them about the challenges you are facing and the types of support that you may need to help ease this process. Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help or talking about your experiences.
Remember ADA Requirements
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets regulations that guarantee equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. You may be protected under these regulations if are qualified for the job, meaning you meet all of the job requirements and you are able to perform its essential functions with or without reasonable accommodations.
Contact a Brain Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one sustained a brain injury in an accident caused by another person, you absolutely deserve compensation for what you have been through. Many people take pride in their jobs and careers, which can be derailed due to the impacts of a TBI.
Our Fresno brain injury attorneys will work as your legal advocates to ensure you receive a full financial recovery so that you can focus on moving forward with your life.
Contact Fowler Helsel Vog at (559) 900-1280 to schedule your free case review. You can also fill out our online contact form and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Se habla español.