by Don Johnston
A spinal cord injury is an occurrence that changes and disrupts our lives forever. Our focus and priorities switch to maintaining and improving our quality of life. With the assistance and encouragement of our doctors, nurses, rehabilitation specialists, counselors, and family, we can decide to re-enter the job market. So, the question becomes, are we really motivated enough to go back to work? It’s not easy to answer and to do this is going to test our strength and determination.
Factors that would influence us include our age, the type and severity of our disability, the time since onset, the appropriate time to return after the injury, and whether we can meet the job requirements given our level of function. And there are so many more decisions to make in order to enter the jobs market. An estimated 37% of people who are spinal injuries return to working in some form or another.
A major motivating factor for re-entering the job market is to re-establish routines as close to those we once had as possible. And asking the question, can I return to do what I formerly did and do it with as little accommodation as possible. These accommodations can be as simple as providing wider doorways, accessible restrooms, adjustable work station, and an understanding of the endurance of the employee. Having a supportive network can ease the transition back into the work place.
Employment, work, and productivity have all been linked to an improved perceived quality of life. Along with earning an income and receiving health benefits, these are some of the recognized perks of going back to work. Early interventions with your care team are essential in order to determine a plan of action to begin your journey. Consult your doctor’s recommendations on how to proceed, which may include understanding your mobility, maintaining personal hygiene, and recognizing your strengths, limitations, and pain levels. A rehabilitation counselor can guide you to what available options there are to pursue. They will understand your limitations.
Finding a job in today’s economic environment presents both benefits and pitfalls. Looking for employment with a spinal cord injury can be set with a number of obstacles to face. Including architectural, physical, and perceived challenges. Having a set plan and working with your support team will make the barriers to employment easier to overcome.
