1. Be Positive About Your Future
Cerebral palsy is not a progressive disease. It is usually caused by a "one-time event," such as a head injury, lack of oxygen to the brain or poisoning. Cerebral palsy commonly originates as a result of a birth defect, such as a damaged placenta or premature delivery. In other words, it will not get worse, it is not contagious and it is not life threatening. For those three reasons, it's important to remain positive about your condition and to expect and initiate a productive, meaningful life.
2. Be Patient With Your Environment
If you are suffering from severe cerebral palsy, you may find it difficult to communicate with others or to navigate through your physical environment. Becoming frustrated with people, places and things will prevent you from accomplishing your goals. Sure, it's disheartening when a person walks away from you when you're talking, or if you are unable to gain access to a building or structure. You just need to remember that it's not your weaknesses that are limiting your progress, but the weaknesses of others in understanding your needs.
3. Stay Healthy
One of the best ways to cope with cerebral palsy is to eat right and exercise in the same manner as those without impairments. Physical fitness will enable you to be more flexible and maintain better muscle control. Healthy foods will help you to remain trim and light on your feet. Medical conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease are even more difficult to control if you have an impairment, so ask your doctor about a diet and exercise regimen that is right for you.
4. Become as Independent as Self-Sufficient as Possible
Your mental health is an important component to successfully coping with severe cerebral palsy. To improve your mental well being, you should always strive to be as independent and self sufficient as possible. This will boost your self-esteem and improve your attitude immeasurably. Sure, you may still need to depend upon friends and loved ones for some of the basics. However, every time you are able to help yourself, you'll feel a little stronger and a little more in control of your life.
