How Do People Deal With Spinal Cord Injuries?

Suffering a spinal cord injury is a life-changing experience. In addition to significant physical changes, spinal cord injuries can cause a substantial emotional response as well. Each person is different and manages change in their own way, however, sadness, grief and depression are normal responses to this serious and life-altering trauma—for both the injured person and their loved ones.

Changing needs

Once the initial trauma of a spinal cord injury is over and the healing process has begun, there will be a period of adjustment. During this time, emotional and behavioral issues may develop or worsen. However, reintegrating into your life, building a new life or engaging in meaningful activities following a spinal cord injury is the best way to prevent boredom and depression.

Rehabilitation

Regaining skills, like standing and walking, after a spinal cord injury largely depends on the location and severity of the injury. If rehabilitation is an option, it is important to have a positive mental attitude to withstand many months of intensive occupational, physical and recreational therapy.

Five tips for dealing with a spinal cord injury

Coping with life after a spinal cord injury can be incredibly difficult for the injured person as well as their loved ones. Here are some tips to help you deal with a spinal cord injury as well as the emotional and physical challenges that lie ahead:

Understand the five stages of grief

Denial, sadness, anger, bargaining and acceptance—knowing these stages can help you move through them, which allows you to focus on healing and living life.

  • Be patient
    Spinal cord injuries are serious, so it’s important to listen to your body and give it the time it needs to heal. However, it is equally important to stay motivated so you are prepared when your body is ready to take the next step in recovery.
  • Know your spinal cord injury is unique
    Don’t feel like you need to compare your injury or your recovery process to others. Every person and their experiences with spinal cord injury are unique.
  • Accept help
    This may be especially difficult for those who were very independent prior to their injury, however, it is important to let people help you through your recovery process. Having a support system to help you physically will help you emotionally as well.
  • Get into a new routine
    Once you’ve finished your therapy sessions and have returned home, it is important to get into a routine for catheterizing, taking medications, planning restroom breaks and goal setting. Having a routine and knowing what to expect helps many people regain a sense of control, security and comfort.

For expert spinal cord injury pain relief in South Mississippi, contact The Pain Treatment Center at 601-268-8698.

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