Motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) can be life-altering—they don’t just leave physical scars, they often carry a heavy mental and emotional toll, particularly for employees navigating the return-to-work path or individuals returning to meaningful activity. As an Exercise Physiologist (EP), I’ve seen firsthand how a fragmented approach to recovery can stall progress. But when we address both body and mind through Whole-of-Health Functioning, we create a pathway for lasting rehabilitation—one that benefits organisations and individuals alike.
The Hidden Burden of MVAs: Mental Health in the Spotlight
Research from the University of Sydney, funded by Australian Rotary Health, underscores the scale of this challenge: nearly half of all traffic injury survivors experience elevated risk of psychological distress, with risk of developing major depressive disorder affecting up to 26% within a year post-accident.
For organisations, these statistics matter. An individual struggling with flashbacks, fatigue, or social isolation isn’t just less productive—they’re often trying to heal in a system that overlooks the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
Key challenges post-MVA include:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Anxiety, flashbacks, and heightened stress responses can disrupt workplace focus and performance of day-to-day activities.
- Depression and Anxiety: Physical limitations and lifestyle changes can lead to feelings of hopelessness and anxiety that may erode motivation to work and engage with colleagues or perform daily tasks.
- Social Isolation: Extended absences or reduced mobility that limit social interactions can strain team dynamics and further exacerbate loneliness and depression.
Why Whole-of-Health Functioning Works
At PeopleSense: Exercise Physiology by Altius, we know that exercise alone won’t resolve these complexities. Recovery thrives when we integrate the 6 Pillars of Wellbeing (see diagram) into rehabilitation plans.
Here’s how each pillar contributes to recovery:
- Sleep
Poor sleep can lead to anxiety, depression, and low energy, affecting mood and motivation. Exercise Physiologists provide simple adjustments—like educating individuals on sleep hygiene or aligning return-to-work or daily schedules with restorative rest—which can rebuild energy reserves. - Nutrition
A balanced diet contributes to brain health and aids in mood regulation. While Exercise Physiologists aren’t dietitians, we can guide individuals toward choices that fuel the body and boost both mental and physical health. - Physical Activity
Tailored activity programs designed by Exercise Physiologists—such as gradual reintroduction to lifting or desk-based stretches—reduce pain, boost endorphins, reduce anxiety and depression, enhance cognitive function, and rebuild confidence in bodily capabilities. Regular exercise also releases endorphins, elevating mood and reducing stress. - Relaxation
Techniques like deep breathing, yoga, meditation, or mindfulness can be integrated in daily routines, helping individuals manage stress and anxiety to improve overall wellbeing. - Engaged Occupation
Purpose accelerates recovery. Whether through returning to work or volunteering, study, or daily functional roles, goal setting around personal interests and work encourages engagement and motivation. Modified duties or phased returns allow individuals to contribute meaningfully without feeling sidelined. - Socialisation and Community Engagement
Strong social connections are linked to better mental health, reducing isolation and disengagement with the outside world. Exercise Physiologists encourage group participation in activities or community sessions, reinforcing that recovery isn’t a solo journey.
How Employers Can Support Recovery with Exercise Physiology
Recovering from an MVA isn’t just about healing bones—it’s about rebuilding confidence, focus, and resilience. Here’s how employers can integrate EP-led strategies into workplace recovery plans:
- Act Early – Involve an EP from day one to address pain, mobility, and stress through structured movement.
- Adapt the Work – Use graded exercise plans to ease employees back safely—think light duties with built-in mobility breaks.
- Train Teams – Help managers spot signs of mental fatigue (slowed movements, avoidance) and encourage EP-led rehab as part of recovery.
- Leverage the 6 Pillars – EPs design programs targeting sleep, stress, and social reconnection through movement, aligning with medical guidelines.
- Leverage Expertise – Collaborate with Exercise Physiologists to design workplace wellbeing programs that address all six pillars, aligning with industry guidelines and insurer requirements, to achieve best possible outcomes.
Closing Thought
Recovery isn’t linear, but it is achievable. By treating MVAs as a whole-of-person challenge—not just a physical injury—individuals can expect to return to work and return to life. At PeopleSense: Psychology & Wellbeing by Altius, we’re committed to bridging this gap, because when people heal holistically, societies thrive.
John Cosentino is an Exercise Physiologists and General Manager who leads the occupational health division at PeopleSense: Psychology & Wellbeing by Altius, specialising in psychologically-informed rehabilitation programs. As a Recovery and Wellness Specialist, he leads his team in working with insurers, employers, and treatment providers to implement evidence-based recovery programs.
