There is no understanding what it means when a new diagnosis of a permanent disability has been given unless you have been there. Like any life-altering event, there are a series of emotional hurdles like shock, denial, anger and eventually acceptance. At that point, it’s time to rehabilitate one issue at a time, one day at a time.

Get proactive in moving your recovery forward. If the emotional issues you are facing are greater than you can overcome by yourself, make use of the wonderful resources offered for counseling. Find support within your church, family, friends, hospitals or the agencies that make social services available.

You may need therapy to start relearning skills that have been compromised by the change in your body if your disability is physical or cognitive. Occupational therapists can teach activities of daily living such as eating, dressing and grooming as well as work activities. Therapeutic recreational therapists are there to help you recover motor functioning and attain the skills required to live as independently as possible. They can also provide information about community resources.

You may continue to need a great deal of help in the beginning. Give yourself time and have patience. Remember that family and friends will have many adjustments to make as well. Sometimes hiring an experienced caregiver can not only be of assistance to you, but also for your significant others.

You will need to determine if working is still viable. If so, speak with your employer to discuss any changes that you will require and set goals you can expect to reach. List your skills, education and talents and think about new and creative ways to apply them. If retaining a job is not an option, it is time to consult with the appropriate agency to start the process of applying for disability income.

Housing is yet another aspect of change. Will you need to have your home modified or rearranged to make it easier to traverse? That is possibly an area that will become clearer as you discover any new changes in your needs. In addition, you will need to know whether you will drive or need another form of transportation. Research what modes of getting around that you need and have available in your neighborhood and city.

So many changes are now a part of your life. There is no easy road and no set plan for you. You have it inside of yourself to determine how you will meet this new challenge. You may be surprised at the amazing things you find out about yourself. You are still the same person inside and you are able to achieve whatever you desire.