When most people think of grief, they associate it with losing a loved one. But grief takes many forms including the emotional aftermath of a serious accident. Whether you have been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, medical malpractice incident or another traumatic event, it is completely normal to experience emotional distress alongside physical pain.
From Nurse to Personal Injury Lawyer
As a former registered nurse for the past four decades, I have stood by the bedsides of patients and families during some of the most trying times of their lives. I have witnessed firsthand the profound physical, emotional, and financial impact that serious injuries can impose not just on individuals, but on entire families. This deep understanding and compassion for those enduring hardship inspired me to transition into personal injury law. As a former registered nurse and now personal injury lawyer, my goal is to help people by advocating for their rights, supporting their recovery, and safeguarding their futures.
At Howie, Sacks & Henry LLP, we have worked with countless clients who didn’t just suffer physical injuries they also suffered a loss of identity, mobility, financial stability, and peace of mind. These experiences often trigger the five stages of grief, a concept introduced by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross:
- Denial
- Anger
- Bargaining
- Depression
- Acceptance
Understanding these stages can help you make sense of your emotional journey and allow us, as your legal team, to better support you through it.
Denial – This can’t be happening
In the early days after a serious accident, victims often try to minimize the situation. You might feel numb or insist that you are fine even when you are not. Denial helps cushion the initial shock, but delaying treatment or legal action can be harmful in the long run.
Anger – Why me?
As denial fades, anger often surfaces. This might be directed at the person responsible for your injuries – the other driver, the doctor, hospital, or even yourself. Some people feel frustrated with doctors or the legal system. While anger is natural, it can interfere with relationships and decision, making if left unchecked.
Bargaining – If only I had…
In this stage, people replay the accident over and over, wondering what they could have done differently. “If only I had taken another route…” These thoughts are attempts to regain control. It is normal but also exhausting. A strong support system, including psychological therapy and an experienced legal team, can help you refocus on moving forward.
Depression – Nothing will ever be the same
When the reality of the injury sets in, especially if you’re dealing with long-term consequences, sadness, withdrawal, and hopelessness can follow. This stage is tough. It is not weakness it is human. If this is where you are, you are not alone. Support from family and friends is important, but they may be ill-equipped to know how to help you. A multi-disciplinary treatment team can make all the difference as you work your way through this challenging stage.
Acceptance – This is my new reality
Acceptance doesn’t mean you are happy with what happened. It means you are beginning to heal. You may start adapting, setting new goals, and making decisions with clarity. This is often the most productive phase in a personal injury case, as clients are better prepared to make choices that serve their long-term well-being.
Making Your Way Through the Grieving Process
Making your way through the 5 stages of grief is not a neat, chronological process. You may work your way through denial, anger, bargaining, but then hit a roadblock in your recovery and go right back to the anger phase again. That is how grief works. It is not linear. Be kind to yourself and seek help through your treatment team, counsel and individual therapy.
As a Certified Specialist in Civil Litigation, recognized among the esteemed ranks of Best Lawyers Canada and Lexpert, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, trusted advocacy. Whether I am reviewing medical records, meticulously building a case, or preparing for trial, I always prioritize one overarching principle: the needs of my clients both their present circumstances and future aspirations must guide every action.
Each case is unique, and while the legal focus may vary whether evaluating a doctor’s adherence to the standard of care in medical malpractice or addressing fault and damages in motor vehicle accident claims what remains constant is my ability to interpret and convey complex medical information. This skill enables me to tell my clients’ stories in a compelling, evidence-driven manner.
Trauma-Informed Approach
At Howie, Sacks & Henry LLP, we embrace a trauma-informed approach to personal injury law because we recognize that the impact of an accident extends far beyond physical injuries. We understand that emotional and psychological trauma can profoundly affect your life. Your experience is personal, and it deserves compassionate and comprehensive care.
If you find yourself struggling in the aftermath of a serious accident, rest assured that we are here to support you, not just legally, but empathetically. Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to guiding you through this difficult time with the respect and understanding you deserve. Reach out to us today for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery.
