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How can I adjust to disability or limiting conditions? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: Living with a disability or limiting condition often means making adjustments to the way you live your life, and that can bring up a lot, including frustration, sadness, worry about the future, and a sense of losing parts of who you were.
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  SPEAKER_00: And many people feel this way, and it happens because a change to your body or health can affect your routines, your plans, and how you see yourself.
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  SPEAKER_00: And adjusting is a process that does take time as there is no set pace for it.
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  SPEAKER_00: You can start by asking yourself what matters most to you.
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  SPEAKER_00: It might be time with family, a hobby, work, or simply feeling independent.
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  SPEAKER_00: And then look at how you could keep those things in your life, even if you do them differently.
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  SPEAKER_00: Pay attention to the thoughts that sound all or nothing, like believing you can no longer do anything you enjoy, and check them against the reality of your week.
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  SPEAKER_00: Because often you'll find activities and moments that are still possible, and these are a good place to build from.
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  SPEAKER_00: It also helps to think of a recent time when a day went a little bit better than expected.
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  SPEAKER_00: What was different, who was there, and what made it easier.
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  SPEAKER_00: As those details could help show what works for you now so you can do more of that.
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  SPEAKER_00: But most importantly, being patient with yourself when the changes feel as hard, as you would be with a friend going through the same thing.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now, practical ways to support yourself with this might be to look at the everyday tasks that take the most out of you, including bathing, for example, or preparing meals, or moving around your home.
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  SPEAKER_00: There are different pieces of equipment and technology available to make these tasks easier.
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  SPEAKER_00: You can also keep up healthy routines that suit your body, including regular sleep, nourishing food, and movement that actually feels manageable.
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  SPEAKER_00: Also telling people close to you what has changed and what would help so they can support you in the right way.
• 1:46
  SPEAKER_00: And if work or learning matters to you, then explore what options and adjustments could fit your situation.
• 1:53
  SPEAKER_00: Now, in the times where you might need to seek extra help, you can speak to your GP if low mood, anxiety or worry are affecting your daily life, as talking therapy can help you through these changes.
• 2:03
  SPEAKER_00: You also have your local council's adult social care team that can talk to you about the support and equipment available.
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  SPEAKER_00: And there are local well-being hubs that can help with your physical and mental health.
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  SPEAKER_00: And if you need help getting your views heard when decisions are made about your care, then advocacy services can support you further.
• 2:20
  SPEAKER_00: Now you can go back to the app's resources on adjusting to disability or limiting conditions for further support around this topic.
• 2:27
  SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.