The causes of disabling injuries or illnesses, and the reasons for disability claims, are changing dramatically worldwide. Think of the current Covid-19 pandemic and how it affects everyone differently. While one person may be asymptomatic, another may experience Long Covid, with a range of symptoms lingering weeks or even months after being infected.

Research shows that the primary cause of disability claims is poor lifestyle, which includes an unhealthy diet, little or no exercise, drinking, smoking, substance abuse and obesity as well as general stress related to a demanding, fast-paced work environment, and these days undoubtedly the added stress of the pandemic and post-Covid working world.

It’s inevitable that these issues, on top of other illnesses and injuries, could force you to take extended disability leave. But what happens the day it’s time to go back to work?

Recovering from a long-term illness

How you recover and get back to business depends on the nature of your disability and your health. However, while each person recovers at their own rate, research shows that people generally recover faster if they stay in touch with their workplace and colleagues, or remain at work, albeit with a different or flexible routine.

Here are four things you could do to ensure that you are ready to return to work sooner rather than later.

1. Respond early

It’s important to react as soon as possible, whether it’s a mental or a physical condition. Delaying or ignoring it can only make it worse. ‘Get a definitive diagnosis by a medical professional,’ says biokineticist Kim Murphy, ‘so you know exactly what the limitations of your illness could be.’ You will need this to be able to claim disability insurance, too.

2. Get the paperwork done

Having to take time off due to injury is already stressful and can be compounded by money concerns. Make sure you work with your employer or HR department to complete the necessary claim forms and submit them in time.

It’s worth exploring cover like Old Mutual’s Well4Work, which pays you an income in the event of a debilitating illness.

What makes Well4Work unique is that it is 100% focused on helping an employee to get well and back to work as soon as possible. It takes a holistic view of an employee and employer’s needs while also taking into consideration that different levels of disability cover come at different costs.

3. Create structure and a routine

Having a plan and sticking to it is central to your recovery. This includes continuing with rehabilitation therapy (with, for instance, a physiotherapist, occupational therapist or biokineticist).

When it’s time to return to work, an occupational therapist can be especially valuable since they can advise you on the equipment and modifications that are necessary to make your environment more manageable.

4. Making the transition

‘Entering the workplace again – especially for someone returning with a disability – can be extremely daunting,’ says counselling psychologist Wendy Penfold. ‘Employers and colleagues therefore need to be supportive and accommodating to ensure that their return to work is as safe and comfortable as possible. Tasks might also have to be relooked.’

This is another reason to stay in touch with your employer and colleagues – if they know what to expect when you return, the process will be easier.

What can employers do?

In response to the rise in noncommunicable diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease and type-2 diabetes, many employers have instituted employee-wellness programmes that are preventative and proactive.

‘The mental health and wellbeing of employees is critical for maintaining sustainable levels of employee engagement and resilience in the face of organisational change, motivation and innovation,’ says clinical psychologist Leanne Mandim.

‘Through an integrated employee-wellness approach, employers can benefit, too, through the positive impact on productivity and business performance.’

Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended as a guideline only. Please consult your doctor if you have questions or concerns about returning to work after a long-term illness.

This article originally appeared in Today issue 1 2019 magazine.