frustrated and angry. Have patience as you begin—progress might feel slow and it may feel like you’re not making headway at first, but celebrating the small victories and accomplishments can help you stay motivated.
You may also need to prioritize your medication management, lifestyle changes, and preventive measures. Your healthcare provider may prescribe you medications, such as blood thinners, to help reduce the risk of future strokes.
Other preventative measures may help you recover and prevent future strokes, such as:
- Adopting a heart-healthy diet
- Managing high blood pleasure, high cholesterol, diabetes or atrial fibrillation (if applicable)
- Attending follow-up doctors’ visits and having regular check-ups
- Following your medication guidelines and instructions
- Engaging in regular exercise within one’s abilities
- Quitting smoking (if applicable)
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Moving into your new world
As you ease back into your reality, you may need to adjust your roles and responsibilities, as well as set realistic expectations as you embark on your road to recovery.
You may want to modify aspects of your home to increase safety and accessibility. You may want to consider having handrails installed, removing tripping hazards, or using assistive devices. Occupational therapists can assist you with adjusting to these new changes and provide ideas and support.
Returning to work or engaging in social activities should be approached with care and honesty. It’s important to communicate openly with employers, colleagues, and friends about any limitations or accommodations you may need.
Take your time first and see how you feel after getting back into work and socializing. Gradually increase engagement, and stay mindful of how you’re feeling. As you dip back into your normal activities, you can start to feel more confident and hopeful.
Stay strong
Recovering from a stroke and adjusting to your new reality is undoubtedly challenging—it takes strength, courage, and accepting help from others. With determination, support, and the right resources, you can start to regain your circumstances, sit with the discomfort and adapt to your new environment.
Remember, you won’t be in this place forever—each journey is unique, but you can find joy and fulfillment in your life again. While the recovery process can be difficult, you can feel empowered to embrace this new reality and live the life you want.