DSO: Newly Injured Students

Students Who Are Newly Injured

First of all, the DSO would like to congratulate you in seeking out information regarding your new life circumstances. Knowledge is power, and the fact that you're educating yourself regarding adjustment to a new way of life, if only temporarily, is healthy, natural, and the first step towards a successful and healthy adjustment. The DSO does recognize, however, that some individuals experience adjustment difficulties following serious physical injuries and that such reactions may arise at any stage of the recovery process for these individuals.

Things to Know

You are not alone. There is a whole community of people who are newly injured. Seek out help, mentors, and new friends who can help you in the process of adjustment.
Adjustment can consist of certain stages. Denial, Disbelief, Sadness, Depression, Anger, Bargaining, and Acceptance.
Attitude is everything. It is proven that people who adjust well to changes often lead healthier, happier, more productive lives. Don't let irrational beliefs make your emotional health plummet. This often leads to unhealthy adjustment habits, which likely will put you in greater risk of developing a myriad of medical complications.
Hope is good, motivation is better. Having hope is natural, however, having motivation is better. Motivate yourself to gain strength and function. Set personal goals based on rehabilitation expectations.

Important Resources

Disability Services Office
Student Health Center
Counseling Center
Transportation
Family and Friends
Your Rehabilitative Therapists, Physicians, and Psychologists

Family Adjustment

Loved ones grieve, too. Family members experience the same loss as the injured person.
You are not alone. Along with individuals with new injuries every year, there are family members going through the same feelings and circumstances as you, so you may want to join a support group, if applicable.
Don't be an enabler. It's a myth that people who have sustained a physical injury shouldn't be pushed to accomplish goals. Enabling leads to destructive behavior.
Don't forget the children. Children with whom you associate, will generally ask questions and will adjust seamlessly if the questions are answered with care and honesty.