The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that up to 1 in 4 adults in the United States are living with a disability. This means, that even if you are not currently living with a disability, at some point in your life, you, or someone you know, likely will be.
Disabilities include impairments to mobility, cognition, hearing, vision, and more. Adjusting to a new disability can be challenging and difficult. However, with time, support and the right resources, it is possible to learn to live with, and adapt to, a new disability. Here are some ways you can adjust to living with a disability:
- Seek professional support: Seeing a therapist or counselor can help you work through the emotional and psychological aspects of your new disability. They can help you cope with feelings of depression, anxiety and event frustration that may arise.
- Learn about your disability: Educate yourself about your new disability, its causes and potential treatments or accommodations. This can help you better understand your condition and how to manage it.
- Connect with others: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can be helpful. Joining support groups, online forums or clubs can provide a sense of community and help you feel less alone.
- Learn new skills: Depending on your disability, you may need to learn new skills to help you adapt. For example, you might need to learn how to use assistive devices or how to communicate with others differently than before.
- Make changes to your home and work environment: Depending on your disability, you may need to make modifications to your home and work environment to help you live more comfortably and independently.
- Get involved in activities you enjoy: Find meaningful ways to engage in activities you used to enjoy, or find new activities that you can do. This can help you feel more positive, provide feelings of accomplishment and keep your mind active.
- Take care of your physical and emotional health: It’s important to take care of your physical and emotional well-being. This can include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and practicing stress-relieving techniques.
Remember that adjusting to a new disability is a process and it may take time. It is important to be patient with yourself and to seek help when needed. With the right support and resources, it is possible to learn to live with and adapt to a new disability.
If you find yourself, or a loved one, struggling to accept and adapt to your new disability, give our office staff at New Horizons Center for Healing in North Dallas a call. Our trained professionals are happy to meet with you and aid you through this transition.
