Dealing with the Unthinkable: Life after Waking Up Blind and Deaf
In the face of unimaginable circumstances, such as waking up blind and deaf, the first reaction is often one of shock and despair. The unknowns and the challenges at hand can seem overwhelming. Fighting the urge toward suicide and finding ways to cope with everyday life are crucial. In this article, we explore the immediate steps you might take and strategies to consider.
Immediate Response
Most would likely react with fear and confusion upon waking up without sight or hearing. Your first instinct might be to seek medical attention, such as rushing to your local emergency room or an ophthalmologist for a diagnosis. However, it's critical to remember that sudden loss of sight and hearing can have different causes, be it from ocular or auditory vein occlusions or more severe conditions like a massive stroke.
Medical Evaluation
After securing medical attention, your next step is to ensure your safety. If you are alone, consider asking someone to help you get to an urgent care center or a hospital for further evaluation. Depending on your location and circumstances, you might opt for a CT scan or other diagnostic tests to understand the extent of the damage and any potential underlying causes.
Short-Term Coping Strategies
The sudden loss of visual and auditory senses would necessitate immediate adaptation. Here are some immediate coping strategies:
Emergency Contacts
Call for immediate assistance. Ensure you have emergency contacts nearby, such as family members or friends who can respond quickly. Your sister who is already blind could be an invaluable resource in teaching you braille and providing immediate support.
Guide Dog Training
A guide dog can provide physical and emotional support as you navigate your environment. Training for you and your guide dog can help you develop a new set of skills to manage your daily life.
Adaptive Technology
Invest in adaptive technology to enhance your daily living. From software that reads books out loud to devices that help with cooking and cleaning, these tools can significantly reduce your stress and increase your independence.
Long-Term Adjustments
The road to adapting to a world of darkness and silence is long and fraught with challenges. Here are some actions you might take:
Legal and Financial Considerations
Understand the implications of being both blind and deaf. This might include changes in your living arrangements, financial planning, and medical care. Consider the effects on your employment and make necessary arrangements to protect your financial well-being.
Support Networks
Join a support group or community of others who have experienced similar situations. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can provide emotional support and practical advice.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with the loss of sight and hearing is not just about surviving the immediate crisis but thriving in the long term. It's about finding creative solutions to everyday challenges and building a new normal. Suicide is never a solution and there are always resources and support available. If you or someone you know is struggling, seek help immediately. There are people and organizations dedicated to providing support and guidance.
Remember, the journey ahead is complex and challenging, but with support, resilience, and the right tools, it is possible to lead a fulfilling life.