Changes in life are common in this world. One adapts to it by adjustment. Some changes can be exciting and some may be challenging.
Having a spinal cord injury (SCI) is no doubt a new and a challenging situation. Every aspect of one’s life is affected and it is very hard to get adjusted with SCI.
Getting back home from hospital after the injury is the first adjustment. One has to cope up with the new normal of spending more time in a wheel chair. The out patient rehabilitation is another new. People with SCI have to prevent stress, depression and anxiety. One has to learn to manage self-care and to have better understanding of their body. More attention needs to be focused on relationship with family and friends.
People who adapt well do not experience depression. They have to have an effecting coping strategy and a fighting spirit. The injury needs to be viewed as a challenge and as a potential for personal growth. One has to accept the injury and decide to live with it. The key is to set goals and to strive to reach those goals. The support network of family, friends and others in the community are very important and these injured people need to stay connected with them. One needs to be flexible and to solve problems. Good problem solving skills lead to higher quality of life and fewer medical complications. The bigger issues need to be broken down to smaller manageable ones and to tackled one at a time. The results have to be evaluated. Trying again and adjusting the plans is the key to success.
DIFFICULTIES WITH ADJUSTMENT
People with continuing depression have difficulty in adjusting with SCI. they fall into thinking and behavioral traps. Here are some of the examples.
- Feeling that they have no control over their lives.
- Depending on others more than needed.
- Focusing on bad things.
- Giving up trying to deal with difficulties.
- Focusing on what they can’t do.
Seeking professional help will go a long way in overcoming behavioral trap.
HOW CAN ONE BE INDEPENDENT?
During rehabilitation, one has to learn as to how much they can do on their own. This will help to lessen their reliance on others. One has to start making decisions for themselves and learning how best they can take care of themselves. One has to learn about all the complications of SCI and how to prevent them from occurring. It is very important to have a healthy diet and to stay active.
WHOM TO CONTACT FOR HELP?
- A physical or occupational therapist for activities of daily living
- A doctor or a nurse for medical needs
- A counselor or a psychologist for mood swings, anxiety, relationships and to get back to meaningful life.
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