Getting on with Life After a Stroke?

Stroke can change lives and can have a huge impact on you and your family, but there is life after surviving a stroke.

With the right help and support, your stroke does not have to stop you from doing something you enjoy.

Your stroke will probably cause a lot of worry and uncertainty for the people around you. Planning for the future in both financial and personal circumstances may be difficult and family members may feel overwhelmed if they suddenly have to take over things that you used to do.

Strokes can also have an enormous and sometimes strenuous effect on personal relationships, and this can sometimes make you withdraw and become isolated, affecting your mood and motivation.

To reduce the impact of your stroke on your personal relationships with others, it is important to share information with your family and involve them in making decisions so they know what to expect, especially when you go home, and how they can help you.

Even though your ability to do things may have changed since your stroke, you may still be able to take part in social activities and engagements with others that you and your family can enjoy together. It is important to focus on what you can do, rather than what you cannot, and build from there.

Let your friends know what has happened and help them to understand about the impact it has had on you. They may not realise how tired you get or that you cannot get out as much as you used to. Be open about what you need and what they can do to help you.