People with spinal cord injuries experience a rollercoaster of emotions throughout their recovery journey. Finding light through the dark is key to sustaining a positive mindset and, subsequently, a more fulfilling recovery.
In this article, we’ll explore how to find inspiration in adversity, ways to stay positive during the big changes throughout your rehabilitation, and how Aspire Law is here to support you every step of the way.
Overcoming adversity
Spinal cord injuries can cause major motor impairments and a loss of organ functions, including the limited or complete paralysis of respiratory, bowel, bladder, arm, leg and sexual functions.
Overcoming such adversity requires great strength and perseverance. Coming to accept your new normal can be incredibly challenging. Just know, you’re never alone.
Making new connections
One of the main elements of their injury that people with SCI can struggle with is feeling alone, especially if all of their friends are able-bodied.
Whilst empathy is a powerful tool in these situations, a majority of people will never truly understand, which is why it can be so powerful to connect with other people who have been through similar experiences.
Peer support programmes
Peer programmes are an invaluable resource for people with spinal cord injuries. Connecting people going through the same struggles and inspiring them to share truly helps to alleviate stress and improve the well-being of those with SCI.
According to Wheel Power, charities like the Spinal Injuries Association and BackUp in the UK offer peer programme services. These services are structured to provide people with SCI with an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar experiences of spinal cord injuries.
This establishes a safe space within a supportive community environment, enabling people to speak openly about what they’ve been through, ask questions and celebrate any progress with others who truly understand what they’re going through.
Family and friends
Adapting to a new life has many challenges. Practically speaking, you might now struggle to maintain your independence in tasks such as household chores and travelling to hospital appointments. You’re never alone. Family and friends are there to support you throughout your rehabilitation journey, enabling a smoother transition towards regaining your independence again.
Emotional support
Receiving emotional support from your family and close friends is invaluable for finding inspiration throughout your recovery. They are there to help you and cheer on your progress, no matter how small.
Simply having people there to talk things through can be transformative for your mental health.
Documenting stories
As you begin to envision your future, it can be inspiring and motivating to witness the documented lives of others who have gone through what you’re experiencing now.
Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
Many documentaries explore spinal cord injuries, most notably 2024’s Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, which our very own Raquel Siganporia recently attended the premiere of.
This documentary navigates his relationships with his family members, how work impacted so many people and how the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation contributed to the lives of countless people living with spinal cord injuries.
Inspiring you to share
Picturing a brighter future for yourself will not only uplift your recovery journey but also encourage you to be more open about sharing your own story with those around you.
A problem shared is truly a problem halved. Lean on those around you for support and try to maintain a positive outlook throughout your rehabilitation.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness can be an incredibly powerful tool that enables you to stay rooted in the moment and reduce anxiety.
Techniques including deep breathing, focusing your attention and meditation can help to mould the right mindset for giving you the emotional and psychological strength to work through your recovery.
Social media
Social media has connected individuals around the world, enabling them to share inspiring stories and motivating moments with thousands, if not millions, of people from a diverse range of backgrounds and personal experiences.
The Spinal Injuries Association has its own Facebook group, entitled ‘SCI Owners Club’, which links people with spinal cord injuries, enabling them to share their stories in a safe and secure environment.
Social media is a great place to start when looking for role models, stories of encouragement and online communities to uplift your recovery journey.
Tiffany Carlson is a SCI activist and the executive director of @spinalpedia on Instagram. This profile is dedicated to spotlighting individuals with spinal cord injuries, providing a hub of inspiration and community for those with disabilities.
Adapting with Aspire Law
Overcoming change and remaining positive is possible with the right resources and a supportive network of loving people around you.
In partnership with the charity Aspire, we offer a range of services to help people with spinal cord injuries adjust to their new life and begin to regain their independence.
Get in touch with us today to discover more information about how we can help you with everything from compensation claims to housing needs.
