Written by Lee Brinkley Bryan, M.Ed., C.R.C., C.V.E on September 04, 2019
While transition is part of everyone's life process, the burn survivor experiences multiple transition experiences that can result in different journeys of grief stages concurrently involving self-image, self- esteem, as well as the realities of loss of career identify and earning potential.
The vocational rehabilitation needs of the burn survivor are frequently not addressed during their initial transition journey and they are frequently unsure how to begin return to work planning and what assistance there may be for them. Success in returning to vocational activities following a burn injury requires the development of self-determination and self-assessment strategies.
Think about old situations in new ways. You may not be able to return to your old job, but in retrospect - what did you like most about your job? What did you dislike about your job?
Accept the implications of change. What things about your new "norm" are good?
There is no timeline. Each burn survivor's vocational transition journey will not be identical to another person's journey. Develop goals that are realistic for your vocational transition journey that allow you to realize progress in small and large intervals and time.
Change is always. Family and practitioner assistance can provide the support the survivor needs to channel this stress into positive energy and growth.
Anxiety related to being with strangers and new co-workers
Narrow view of career opportunities
Concerns about physical ability and tolerance to work
Apathy regarding work due to on-going adjustment issues
Impact of depression on positive thinking and planning
Lack of self- confidence
Often times the survivor is focused on recovering from the burn injury and isn’t thinking of work or their job. After a burn injury the focus is on physical rehabilitation and there is a lack of vocational focused support systems. There is often a diminished sense of self confidence and physical limitations that prevent the survivor from going back to their previous vocation. It is important to support the survivor and family throughout this process and identifying a vocational plan. Below are some are programs and resources available to aid in your transition back to work after a burn injury:
Insurance benefits – Workers Compensation, LTD, etc
State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
Public Schools – Vocational Ed, Transition Services, etc.
College Tuition Loan Programs
Personal Financial Resources
State Lottery College Funding
Scholarship Programs
Your state’s Department of Labor or Employment Security Commission Website
O-NET Online – Interest Profiler www.onetcetner.org/CIP.html
Occupational Outlook Handbook – US Department of Labor – online at www.bls.gov/oco/