Any lawsuit can be stressful, but when the malpractice lawsuit you’ve filed heads to court, it can be emotionally draining. How do you prepare yourself emotionally for a court battle?

In this Malpractice Guide article, you will learn tips for getting through the challenges of your malpractice trial.

Take Care of Yourself Physically

It is very important that you keep up your physical wellbeing. Be sure to get plenty of sleep every night. Exercise daily if possible as a means to stay fit and reduce stress. Exercise will also help you sleep better. Eat healthy food and stay away from junk food or fast food. Stay hydrated with plenty of fresh water or juice. Avoid caffeinated beverages.

If you are taking prescription medication, don’t stop without doctor’s orders or approval. If you are scheduled for treatment or physical therapy, make sure to keep your appointments.

Find Other Things to Focus On

Don’t be mentally consumed by the law suit. Give yourself a mental break by going for a scenic drive, engaging in your favorite hobbies, reading a favorite book and similar activities, having lunch with a friend and talking about anything other than the lawsuit. About talking to a friend – if you have a trusted friend who you can talk to about the stresses you’re facing and your concerns, this can be very relieving too.  It takes quite a while to settle a malpractice case, so you should try to find other things to focus on.

Continue to Pray or Meditate

If prayer and/or meditation are part of your lifestyle, continue to make time for them. They will help you relax, keep perspective and take your mind off of the trial.

Stay Connected to Family and Friends

When stress hits, some people tend to disconnect and become isolated. If you have these tendencies, resist them. You need the support of family and friends during this time, so spend time with them doing things you enjoy.

Prepare Yourself to Testify

Don’t be consumed by the trial, but do take the time to be prepared. If your malpractice lawyers plan for you to testify, then make sure that you have given careful thought to your testimony. Your malpractice attorneys might want to go over your testimony with you ahead of time.

Role playing, with the attorney asking you the same questions he or she will ask you in court as well as questions you might be asked by attorneys for the doctor, will give you confidence and will dispel some of your concerns. This will be of great help emotionally. It might help you win your case too.

Keep up these habits as the trial approaches and also during the trial.  The toll will be far less if you follow these tips and take care of your emotional, mental and physical wellbeing.