The unfortunate reality is that we can develop a loss of mobility at any point in our lives, due to an unforeseen accident or health condition, no matter how fit or healthy we may otherwise feel. Having to adapt to a sudden lack of freedom and independence can, unsurprisingly, be a significant challenge, and it’s common for people with mobility issues to struggle with their mental health.
If you currently find yourself battling both the physical and mental side effects of losing your mobility, the good news is that there are things that can be done to help you cope – and to improve your quality of life. Read on to find out more, and to discover how to give your mental health a much-needed boost today.
Find The Tools That Can Make Your Life Easier
Perhaps one of the best ways you can help yourself regain some emotional equilibrium while coping with mobility loss is to take advantage of every tool available to give you your autonomy back.
These days, there are so many kinds of mobility aid available, ranging from modifications that can be installed around your home, to mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and powerchairs that can help you get out and about.
For example, Mobility Solutions offer this selection of power wheelchairs that not only offer all of the benefits of a traditional scooter but are also more convenient to use around the home, thanks to their tight turning circle. With a powerchair to rely on, you can enjoy an instant improvement in your levels of independence, which may help to give you a much-needed boost of confidence.
Being able to get out of the house and resume some of your normal activities can be a significant boon when it comes to improving your mental health. The isolation that can come as an unwelcome side effect of a sudden loss of mobility can trigger feelings of depression, loneliness, and anxiety, so the easier it is for you to get around, and interact with other people, the better.
Develop A Support Network
Speaking of interacting with other people, focusing on building up a support network of positive and nurturing people will work wonders when it comes to improving your mental and emotional well-being.
This support network will, of course, include some of your family members and perhaps some close friends too, but you should also look beyond your immediate contacts and seek additional help and support wherever possible. The wider and stronger your safety net, the better; you can never have too many people on hand to guide you through this tricky period of adjustment.
For instance, you may want to join a local support group for anyone struggling with mobility loss, and, if you’re really struggling with your mental health, it may also be a good idea to seek counselling. Developing effective coping strategies with the help of an experienced mental health professional can give you the resources you need to lift your mood when you start to experience difficult thoughts or emotions.
Find Things To Look Forward To
When we are battling with uncomfortable feelings, due to struggles with our mental health, it can often help to have something positive to focus on. For example, you could set up a regular weekly coffee date with a much-loved friend or family member, either at your home or at your favourite restaurant or café.
Alternatively, perhaps you could plan regular outings to wheelchair-accessible attractions. For instance, if you have a passion for gardening, and for plants in general, then you could arrange a trip to a historic hotspot renowned for its breathtaking gardens – such as Westonbirt Arboretum, or Great Dixter.
On the other hand, if you used to be a keen horse rider, you may want to consider resuming your favourite sport with the help of the Riding for the Disabled Association, which has a network of centres scattered across the UK. Their well-trained horses and friendly and experienced teams of volunteers help disabled children and adults enjoy uplifting horse-riding sessions and even carriage driving if you’re interested in trying something new.
Whatever activity you relish the most, making sure you dedicate some time each week to doing something you enjoy can help to lift your mood and give you something positive to focus on, rather than dwelling on your physical limitations.
Nurture Your Body
While you may struggle, initially, with your relationship with your body and your feelings about its new restrictions, it’s important to do what you can to nurture and care for yourself on a physical basis, as well as emotionally.
This means making sure you eat well, that you spend enough time outside, and that you keep on top of any pain or discomfort with whatever medications have been prescribed. You should also try to adopt a patient and caring attitude toward your body at all times, treating yourself as you would a cherished friend, rather than dwelling on critical thoughts.
By taking good care of yourself on a physical level, you will also help your mental health at the same time, boosting your self-confidence and resilience into the bargain.
