New Year, New Care

When the New Year rolls around, everyone reflects on the previous year and sets goals for the new one. For those of us with a disability, and more specifically SMA, the New Year is a good time to reassess what is working for you and what’s not, in terms of the care you are receiving.

It’s a great time to sit and write out what areas you’d like to see changed, improved, or adjusted. For instance, personal goals for the year are a great place to start.

If you are wanting to seek better treatment, then you should have it be a priority to seek improved treatment. If you want to physically feel better, start creating a self-care routine that includes things like vitamin regimens, tracking water intake, and what you eat.

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If you are overwhelmed and you feel like you need assistance in your home, create a new plan for your caregivers. If you are struggling with anxiety about the future, consult with a therapist or counselor to process your emotions. Overall, create a new plan for what you want to allocate your time to.

Focusing on a self-care routine

How we care for our bodies physically is really important. When I don't keep up on my vitamins, I feel run down. I get sick more easily, and when I don't hydrate as much I feel depleted.

Making these things a focus in the forefront of my mind with intention is incredibly important. A tip for me - I had to break my vitamins out each day.

I felt like an old person but it really helped me stay on top of it. I convoluted with my doctor to see what vitamins my body was deficient in, knowing what my diet was, and seeing what areas I could supplement them in

Needing assistance in your home

I’m a firm believer that the atmosphere of your home plays a huge role in your mental state. We rely on a lot of caregiving from others, and home care from others (having a disability).

But reviewing and reflecting helps manage it well, and ensures all the needs in the home are being met. Annually, I give my caregivers an updated schedule and routine.

I like to take a look at areas that maybe feel overwhelming and then discuss with them how we can shift things.

Mental health check

As we enter the New Year, I like to do a mental health check and see where I’m at.

Whether that’s making sure I get outdoors more or spend time with friends, or actually getting clinical help from a therapist, I think all of these things are worthwhile to evaluate and set aside time for.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The SpinalMuscularAtrophy.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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