The possibility of living with sight loss can have a significant impact on your health and wellbeing. Take a look at the resources and tools we have to support you and help you to embrace life’s challenges.
Losing your sight may be a scary and life-altering experience. Whether gradual or sudden, the process of adjusting to vision loss often parallels the stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Understanding this emotional journey and finding ways to work through the stages can help you to return to a sense of normalcy and regain independence in your daily life.
It is important to realise that everyone experiences some or all of these stages from time to time and it is essential to get professional help if it is severe and lasting.
If you or someone you know feels distressed, overwhelmed, or is experiencing depression, you can speak to someone by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 (available 24 hours, 7 days a week).
For long term support, SeeWay has partnered with onPsych to create Australia’s first comprehensive mental wellbeing program for people experiencing permanent changes in their vision and their families. Delivered by psychologists and mental health social workers specially trained in the unique challenges vision changes can present, it is a free and flexible service to help ensure you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Find out more about our mental wellbeing program here.
Denial
Initially, many people may have trouble accepting vision loss. They may downplay its severity, or convince themselves that it’s temporary. Denial can serve as a protective mechanism, shielding individuals from overwhelming emotions.
Anger
Individuals may experience anger and frustration when coming to terms with vision loss. They may feel resentful about their condition.
Bargaining
In this stage, an individual may try to regain control by attempting to bargain with yourself or entertain thoughts of ‘if only’ scenarios. While bargaining can offer a temporary sense of control, it’s essential to recognise its limitations. Acceptance often requires embracing the present reality, as well as different options and opportunities.
Depression
Coping with vision loss can evoke feelings of sadness, helplessness and despair. People who experience vision loss may mourn the potential loss of independence, hobbies and future plans. Depression in response to vision loss is not uncommon and should be addressed with compassion and support. Seeking professional counseling or connecting with peer networks can provide invaluable emotional support during this challenging time.
Speaking to others who have gone through the same experience can give hope, foster empathy and understanding, and help to make a person feel less alone. Speaking to others is not just beneficial for the person who is dealing with loss, but it is also extremely helpful for those around them such as family members or friends.
Acceptance
With time and support, many individuals reach a stage of acceptance where they come to terms with their vision loss and find new ways of living fulfilling lives. Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation or indifference; rather, it involves embracing circumstances and exploring adaptive strategies. This may involve learning new skills, using assistive technology, and seeking help when needed.
A bright future remains
If you or someone you know are experiencing vision loss, it is possible for the person to continue enjoying their favourite hobbies and activities, continue working, and do many other activities.
When the person is ready, they may consider taking action in the areas of your life where they see potential for change and learn new skills to support their independence.
- Seek support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends and family or seek professional help if support is needed. This can include joining peer support groups or getting counselling sessions.
- Learn new skills: Learning new skills can help to enhance independence and help to better navigate daily life. Visiting an orthoptist who can recommend strategies and low vision aids can help with daily living and maintaining independence.
- Embrace technology to assist with daily living: Navigating the digital world can seem overwhelming, especially when navigating sight loss. Our free digital skills pilot program Get Online, Get Connected, can help you to do more with your devices, such as discovering new features on your devices, staying in touch with family and friends, learning how to do your banking and shopping online, or accessing entertainment.
Managing grief and sight loss is a personal journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Acknowledging the emotional challenges of vision loss and seeking support when needed can help you to begin to move forward and adjust to life.
For more information.
- Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 (available 24 hours, 7 days a week).
- Always speak to your GP and eyecare professional about the best treatment options for you.
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