There is nothing funny about a broken rib. In fact, laughing hurts, so humor is better left out of the equation. There is irony in a former college hockey player slipping on the ice and breaking a rib. This happened after I escaped most of my career without a major injury. Still, here I am, and I am determined to learn from the situation. One week in, here are some takeaways that I would like to share.

Not all injuries are visible. As a psychologist, I know this all too well. It is discouraging to be in intense pain, as with a broken rib, or chronic pain, without anyone being able to see it from the outside. This is also the case with depression, grief, and other forms of mental and physical illness. This feeling is isolating.

No need to keep the secret. I have found that sharing that I am in pain is the best policy. This way, others can lend a hand without judging me for not pulling my weight. I have experienced........

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