Let’s talk Mental Health! Mental Health awareness is about recognizing the impact of trauma on overall wellbeing. Did you know that studies have found spinal cord injury (SCI) increases the risk of mental health disorders? You are truly not alone if you struggle with a mental health disorder.
It’s okay not to be okay!
Depression and anxiety are normal reactions to the physical and routine changes due to injury. Emotional and behavioral issues may arise or worsen after SCI. Living with an SCI is a physical, emotional, mental, and overall change in well-being. You have to learn how to live all over again after an SCI.
So, who’s at risk for a Mental Health Disorder?
Everyone! However, as mentioned above, people with spinal cord injuries are at an increased risk of developing a mental health disorder.
What to do:
If you are struggling, start talking about it! Talk to someone you trust about it. Or, if your mental distress is becoming more frequent, connect with your doctor about it. There are resources and coping strategies that can also help if you don’t feel comfortable talking with a loved one or doctor.
Resources:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or Call/text 988
MetroHealth 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 216-623-6888 (local number)
Crisis Counselor Text Support: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor 24/7
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Ohio: Local resources and support for individuals and families living with mental illness – provided by people who have been there – https://namiohio.org
