Yes You Can - Fourth Edition - 143

involve feeling dizzy, sweating, having a pounding heart, feeling panicked, trembling, and having a fear of losing control or dying. Panic attacks can be very distressing, but they are treatable. Another form of anxiety is post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD]. PTSD can develop after experiencing a traumatic event, such as an accident, natural disaster, assault, combat, or any situation in which a person has feelings that their own life or another person’s is in danger. PTSD has many symptoms, including nightmares about the event, avoiding things that remind them of the event, being prone to anger or irritability, and having diﬃculties in relationships. Like other forms of anxiety, PTSD is treatable with counseling, medications, or a combination of the two. [ Table 3.c.B ] Symptoms of Anxiety Feeling like your heart is pounding Sweating for no reason Trembling or shaking Difficulty breathing Feeling like the walls are closing in on you Fear of dying or going crazy Fear of going outside or of social situations Nightmares or unwanted thoughts about an upsetting event Avoiding activities that remind you of the event Feeling numb or detached from life Worrying a lot Where to Go for Help Most SCI programs have psychologists who can either work directly with your or refer you to a qualiﬁed mental health counselor close to your home. You can also ask your primary health care provider for a referral for counseling or treatment with medication. Another option is to go to your community mental health clinic. Diﬀerent types of counseling and medications are eﬀective in treating anxiety and depression. Discuss treatment options with your mental health care provider and choose the one that feels right for you. There’s nothing shameful about having trouble with anxiety or depression—these symptoms are quite common throughout the general population. And treating anxiety and other mental health issues can help prevent some medical complications. How Can Anxiety Aﬀect Your SCI Care? Anxiety can aﬀect your care in several ways. For example, during your rehabilitation, anxiety can keep you from participating in your therapies, especially if you’re afraid to try new things. After discharge, it can interfere with getting a good night’s sleep or prevent you from going out into the community. If fear or anxiety is keeping you from living your life fully, it may be time to address these symptoms. Managing Stress Having an SCI, or being a caregiver for someone with SCI, can be stressful. Research has shown that people with SCI who report more stress in their lives also report greater life dissatisfaction and more symptoms of depression. It’s important to learn how to manage stress so it doesn’t negatively aﬀect your life. Physical exercise, relaxation exercises, and learning to “let go” of tasks and issues that really aren’t important are ways to reduce stress. A mental health provider can help you learn to manage stress if you ﬁnd it diﬃcult to do so on your own. Prevention of Depression and Anxiety The best way to avoid depression is to stay active and involved in your life. Studies suggest that people who keep doing the activities they usually like, even if they feel down, are less likely to get depressed. Keep an eye on your mood and look for symptoms of anxiety. Talk with your loved ones about how you’re doing and let them know what to watch out for—they can help you get help early, when it can be most eﬀective. Section 3: Coping and Living with SCI! | [ 143 ]

Yes You Can - Fourth Edition

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Yes You Can - Fourth Edition