What emotional reactions do people have after an SCI?
Authors: SCIRE Community Team | Reviewer: Arlene Aspinall and Tova Plashkes | Published: 17 February 2017 | Updated: ~
Experiencing a spinal cord injury can be a life-changing experience. It is common for people to experience emotions like sadness, disbelief, anger, grief, confusion, helplessness, anxiety, post-traumatic stress reactions, or other difficulties coping. However, there is no predictable response that everyone will have after an SCI; it is different for everyone.
Some people may develop psychological conditions like depression, substance abuse disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Risk for suicide is also higher among people living with a SCI than in the general population. However, the majority of people do not develop major psychological conditions after an SCI.
Positive coping and adjustment to an SCI may be supported through activities like:
- Speaking with a mental health provider like a social worker, counsellor, or psychologist;
- Bringing up questions or concerns with other members of the health team, like doctors and nurses;
- Seeking support from loved ones like family, partners, and friends, and staying socially engaged;
- Seeking out peer-support programs or groups, that can arrange for you to meet with other people who have experienced living with a SCI; and
- Taking an active role in treatment and developing positive and active ways of coping.
