Managing a physical disability as a veteran (especially before you've been awarded VA disability benefits) can be incredibly challenging, both mentally and physically. Dealing with symptoms day-to-day before you have a clear treatment plan is a lot to handle.
Here are 5 wellness practices for veterans managing physical disabilities:
Consider trying adaptive sports
It's no secret that exercise can benefit our physical and mental health – but having a physical disability can make it feel impossible to move in ways you used to. Veterans can consider participating in adaptive sports, which are sports that have been modified in order to accommodate people with disabilities. There are plenty of wheelchair-friendly sports (like basketball) and others that have adaptive equipment so that everyone can participate. Not only will a bit of regular exercise benefit you, the community aspect of adaptive sports is also supportive for mental wellness.
We wrote a blog about adaptive sports here.
Prioritize nutrition and healthy eating habits for your disability
Diet and nutrition can boost our physical and mental health, lowering depression symptoms while providing our bodies with the nourishment we need to heal or manage ongoing symptoms of chronic conditions. Veterans who are managing a physical disability can benefit from regularly eating anti-inflammatory foods that can combat pain in the body.
Read more on nutrition:
Seek mental health support when you need it
Talking to friends and family about your physical or mental health as a veteran can be difficult, especially when you don't feel understood since they haven't experienced the same things you have. Dealing with the long-term, chronic symptoms or restrictions that disabilities can bring can have a significant impact on a veteran's mental health and quality of life. Seeking support from a veteran-specific therapist is a great wellness practice for learning methods to cope with your disability and how to better communicate your needs with loved ones in your life.
Connect with others who experience the same disability
Community is important for veterans – especially when dealing with a disability that alters their daily functioning. In order to feel less alone and also enjoy the company of others, getting involved with a community of veterans can be an important ingredient in a regular wellness routine. Veterans who went through similar combat experiences might have the same or similar disabilities, allowing them to understand what one another are going through.
If you're a veteran looking for more community in your life but don't know where to start, there are a few resources in this blog.
Practice mindfulness during your downtime
Mindfulness is the practice of staying in the present moment, and it can take on a handful of different forms – meditation, breathing exercises, checking in with your senses, and more. It could also mean doing something creative to take the focus back to the present moment. These simple practices can even reduce physical sensations of pain by toning down the body's fight or flight response, which can give veterans a better sense of control over their bodies while adjusting to life with a physical disability. Making this a regular part of your routine can offer massive benefits, mentally and physically.
Learn about your options for VA disability benefits
Proper documentation is the best way to craft a strong and compelling VA disability benefits claim. From Nexus Letters and DBQs to chart reviews and more, we provide the tools and support you need to succeed. Don’t go through the process alone; work with one of our professional medical experts to ensure you're prepared to file your claim. Sign up for a chart review today and explore our full range of services here to get started.
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