Scoliosis and a positive attitude

Scoliosis is treated primarily as a physical condition. While it is a physical condition that affects the body in many ways, I believe it affects other parts of your life as well including mental health, everyday activities, leisure activities, etc. Today I would like to focus on the mental health aspect.

With everything that comes with a scoliosis diagnosis (doctor's appointment, x-rays, talk about bracing/surgery, etc) it is no wonder that some people experience mental health concerns such as fear and anxiety. Parents or caregivers can also experience these feelings as well but caregivers who experience a more positive attitude are better able to help their loved ones. While it may be hard to stay positive sometimes, did you know that having a positive attitude actually does have health benefits? Keeping a positive attitude is does not just relate to scoliosis but really anything in life. Some benefits of those who practice positive thinking include...

• a longer life span

• greater resistance to illnesses such as the common cold

• lower rates of depression

• lower levels of negative stress

• improved cardiovascular health

• improved coping skills for other hardships in life

• improved relationships and function in everyday life

In addition, stress and anxiety can actually cause increased pain in your muscles. I have personally experienced this. When I am extremely stressed about something (school, work etc.) I almost always experience increased pain in my shoulders since this is my main trouble area due to my scoliosis. I also tend to get more knots in my back that become very tight and painful. Stress also increases the amount of cortisol in your body which is known as the 'stress hormone'. High levels of cortisol in the body can make learning and memory more difficult.

Having a positive attitude and outlook can help combat these symptoms. However, I know that having a positive attitude can be hard when you are dealing with everything that comes along with scoliosis plus all of life's other challenges (work, school, relationships, etc). Trust me, I still get down sometimes but knowing how stress affects my body has helped me realize my triggers and how to combat stress.

The first step to achieving a more positive attitude is to realize that having a positive attitude does not mean ignoring the 'bad' things that are happening in your life. Instead, acknowledge it and do what you need to cope with it but do not dwell on it or let it get out of control.

Secondly, make a game plan for how to address the problem you are facing. Is there anything you can do about it? If not, don't dwell on it (trust me I know this is easier said than done).

Thirdly, I would develop a list of things that you know make you happy. When you are feeling stressed, anxious, upset, etc. you can turn to this list to help relieve your mind and focus on more positive things. Of course everyone's list is going to be different because everyone has different interests but here is a list of things I like to do when I feel anxious or overwhelmed.

I just want to add, I am the type to worry about EVERYTHING. I just want say this because while I am preaching to have a positive attitude, I know it can be hard. I am still practicing developing a more positive attitude with everything in life but I have experienced the benefits of developing a more positive attitude. It will take time and practice but it is well worth it!

Comment below something you like to do when you feel anxious/worried/upset to help yourself feel better!