A stroke can be a life-changing event. Not only can it impact physical health but also emotional well-being. Based on our many years’ experience providing live-in care services for those who have suffered a stroke, we provide some curated dos and don’ts for caregivers and patients to help with stroke rehabilitation.
Stroke survivors – what not to do or say after a stroke
As a stroke survivor, you may be feeling many emotions all at once. It is normal to feel frustrated and angry as well as vulnerable and upset. However, there are some ways in which you can support your mental well-being.
What not to say to yourself after a stroke?
Firstly, it’s essential not to compare yourself to others who may have suffered a stroke. Every journey is unique, so try and avoid phrases like “but they recovered far more quickly than I have” and other comparative phrases. These phrases can put unnecessary pressure on you and may cause you to feel discouraged in your rehabilitation.
It’s also important not to minimise your own feelings. Saying to yourself “I should be over this now”, is not helpful. A stroke is a major event and can leave many people with some form of trauma. Being able to air your feelings can be a crucial part of healing.
In addition to this, another unhelpful phrase is “I want to be alone”. Being alone after a stroke for short periods of time can be helpful as you process what has happened to you. However, isolating yourself is not helpful, and sharing how you feel with family members, friends or support groups is important. They can provide you with the encouragement you need and the emotional support to maintain good mental health.
What not to do after a stroke?
Every patient’s stroke rehabilitation journey is different. You will likely have been provided with a rehabilitation plan, and it’s vital not to neglect this. Sticking to your routines when it comes to exercises can help you regain your function and independence.
However, don’t ignore your feelings and push through if things are too hard. Physical pain can be an indicator that something isn’t right, so seek help if this occurs.
In addition, anxiety and depression can occur after a stroke. Speaking to a mental health professional if you’re struggling will help you to deal with these feelings.
Finally, never rush back to your old life and routines. It’s vital to take one rehabilitation step at a time so that you don’t push yourself too hard.
The most important thing to do after a stroke
Understand that while you have suffered a significant medical event, this does not have to define you. Focus on your rehabilitation, seek therapy if you require it and make lifestyle changes if they have been suggested to you. This can improve your rehabilitation and reduce the risk of you having another stroke.
How likely is a second stroke?
The risk of a second stroke tends to be highest in the year after the first stroke. However, following the advice of your medical professionals and managing any underlying health issues can reduce this risk significantly.
Guidance for caregivers – what not to do and say to a stroke survivor
As well as giving advice to strokes survivors, we have also created advice for carers. It’s important not to risk the physical or mental health of the person who has had a stroke. The tips below should help with this.
What not to say to a stroke survivor
Referring to someone as a stroke victim can actually be detrimental so instead use the term “stroke survivor” which is a positive, brave and empowering phrase to use.
In addition to this, as mentioned for the stroke survivor, it’s best not to give unsolicited advice or compare their progress with someone else. Being openly optimistic or dismissing the strokes survivor’s feelings can also be detrimental. Phrases such as, “you’ll be back to normal in no time” or “it can’t be that bad“ can be harmful to a person’s mental health or ability to talk to others about their feelings.
Finally, putting a timeline on someone’s rehabilitation by encouraging them to be able to do things by a certain date or event can also be harmful. After all, this can lead to feelings of pressure on the person while they undertake their rehabilitation.
What not to do after a stroke as a caregiver?
While it’s important to provide the right level of care to a stroke survivor, it’s also vital not to take over everything for them. Regaining independence is likely to take some time, particularly for someone who has had a severe stroke, but allowing them to work within their boundaries will give them a feeling of positivity.
In addition to this, throughout your time caring for a stroke survivor, it’s important not to neglect your own needs. You cannot help someone if you are unable to look after yourself. Joining a support group for caregivers or getting advice on respite care or in-home care services to give you a break can help you avoid burnout and give better care to your loved one.
