You will likely never forget the expressions on your loved ones' faces when they stepped into your hospital room and saw you for the first time after your accident. You could see in their faces that they had already begun to think of you differently, and you may have worried that they now saw you as a patient instead of the vibrant and vital part of their lives you once were.
The accident that damaged your spinal cord changed your life forever. Not only did it rob you of many physical abilities, it may also have filled you with confusing emotions and anxieties. The weeks or months in the hospital following your accident did not prepare you for the struggle you faced when you got home.
The reality of your new life
While most of your recovery has probably focused on your physical health, you are certainly suffering psychologically in ways you may not even be able to put into words. Some of the upsetting changes you may be experiencing include:
- Watching your spouse or other loved ones taking on the role of your caretaker
- Losing your independence
- Struggling to contribute to your family in a meaningful way
- Seeing the change in the way others treat you
- Fighting feelings of depression and despair
Depression and anxiety are normal reactions to such a traumatic and life-changing event. Even minor injuries create frustration for those who become impatient with their recoveries. For you, however, understanding the limitations of your recovery may make those feelings more pronounced and serious. If you have a strong support system, you will hopefully find yourself overcoming those difficulties and regaining a positive outlook. However, you should not be afraid to seek professional help.
Getting the help you deserve
You may be wondering how long it will be before you are fully adjusted to your new life. The unfortunate answer is that it may take you the rest of your life. You may get used to the daily routines required for your care, but your doctor has likely prepared you for the fact that your emotional recovery may be long and painful.
Certainly, you and your loved ones want the very best medical, psychological and rehabilitative care you can possibly get. However, this takes money. If you speak with an attorney about the possibility of recovering damages from the person responsible for your accident, you may learn that there is hope for obtaining compensation. An attorney who passionately advocates for those suffering catastrophic injuries will work hard to get results for you.