Recovering from a disability can take time, and getting back into your routine may feel like a lot. With support, planning and patience, you can gradually rebuild your daily life and move forward with confidence – one step at a time.
Staying connected is important in your recovery and many people find that staying in touch makes returning to work feel a little easier. Your employer’s human resource team serves as a good point of contact, and you are encouraged to contact them any time you have questions or need support.
Returning to work — even if it’s not to the same job you held before your disability — is about more than receiving a paycheck. It can help you rebuild confidence, restore a sense of purpose and create belonging. Working can also have positive effects on your physical and mental health.
What could happen at this point in your journey? It depends on your specific situation. You might return to your former occupation, transition to a new role with your same employer, begin work with a different employer, or train for a new job. Your insurance could potentially help cover costs for any of these next steps.
If you are unable to return to your previous role, a vocational consultant will consider your education, training and work experience and evaluate the labor force and market trends in your area. The goal is to help you get the support, including tools and training, you need to return to your job or find a new occupation that aligns with your capabilities.
Whether you’re returning to full duties or need workplace modifications, your insurance company offers support. Your claims examiner can guide you regarding your policy, and a vocational consultant can provide guidance to help you prepare for and start a conversation with your employer.
Focus on your ability
It’s about capability, not disability. The return-to-work process is the time to start thinking about what you can do and stop thinking about what you can’t do.
