If you’ve already had a stroke, it becomes extremely important to educate yourself about the triggers that cause it, and what you should be doing to reduce your risk of a second stroke. Given the sometimes devastating damage that a stroke can cause to your body, it is well worth your time and effort to learn everything in your power to ward off another stroke. In this article, we’ll discuss some steps you can take after having suffered a stroke, so as to enjoy your life to the fullest, while also being prudent in trying to prevent a recurrence.
Coping emotionally with a stroke
Group therapy is often helpful, and a number of stroke victims have found that interacting with a social group helps to mitigate the feelings of isolation that are common in the aftermath of a stroke. Many people will go through a period of grief after a stroke, as they recognize that new limitations have been placed on their physical and mental abilities. It’s important in such cases to avoid self-criticism as much as possible. Try to convert any negative feelings you have into positive ones. Don’t allow yourself to be overcome with negative thinking, since that will tend to deepen any depression you feel.
Many people also undergo distinct behavioral or personality changes following a stroke, and this can be corrected or at least managed through medication. One of the most common emotional reactions to a stroke is depression, with at least 25% of stroke survivors being victimized by depression, and some estimates putting that figure at closer to 80%. It is known that stroke survivors are more than twice as likely to commit suicide as people from the general population. Anyone who has suicidal thoughts following a stroke should call 911 in a crisis, or dial 988 to put you in touch with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Depression can be treated with group support and several medications, which will help you recover and overcome the negative feelings.
Coping emotionally with a stroke
Group therapy is often helpful, and a number of stroke victims have found that interacting with a social group helps to mitigate the feelings of isolation that are common in the aftermath of a stroke. Many people will go through a period of grief after a stroke, as they recognize that new limitations have been placed on their physical and mental abilities. It’s important in such cases to avoid self-criticism as much as possible. Try to convert any negative feelings you have into positive ones. Don’t allow yourself to be overcome with negative thinking, since that will tend to deepen any depression you feel.
Many people also undergo distinct behavioral or personality changes following a stroke, and this can be corrected or at least managed through medication. One of the most common emotional reactions to a stroke is depression, with at least 25% of stroke survivors being victimized by depression, and some estimates putting that figure at closer to 80%. It is known that stroke survivors are more than twice as likely to commit suicide as people from the general population. Anyone who has suicidal thoughts following a stroke should call 911 in a crisis, or dial 988 to put you in touch with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Depression can be treated with group support and several medications, which will help you recover and overcome the negative feelings.
Coping physically with a stroke
If you experience weakness on one side of the body after a stroke, physical therapy can sometimes help you to become stronger, and occupational therapy can provide you with substitute strategies for normal activities. It’s very common also for stroke survivors to have difficulties with their balance, feeling disoriented or dizzy. These sensations will typically be intermittent, but should eventually stabilize. The best way to combat any problems with your balance is through physical therapy. Your therapist will be able to show you some effective exercises at home that can improve your balance, and fight against any dizziness or disorientation you feel.