Survivors especially has to deal with emotions and try to stay positive. All caregivers cover the same grounds in caring for a survivor. This life after a stroke takes it's toll on the body, soul and for sure the mind.

It never crossed my mind when I was released from the hospital after 3 months, that the battle and struggle to keep a positive attitude could be this complexed. I'm thinking it's because now it's two, survivor and caregiver trying to work together, but in different frames of mind.

A survivor not being fully independent has to deal with the caregiver for support. That puts more pressure on the caregiver trying to be two places at the same time. Emotions are going to surface. I just read a topic Jean brought back to read about emotions. Really makes a lot of sense for understanding what we are facing after a stroke. Independence we lost, therefore assistance is needed to help us maintain some sort of life.

The more we read, the more we learn how hard life after stroke can be. Emotions, setbacks, and many negative things and happening can cause us to stop and think how some things could be much worse if we don't think and stay positive. We can only do so much ourselves, then at times, seem like the who;e world is crashing down all around you.

After 2 years, I'm finding out how depression can set in if you allow it. Your enviroment, relationship, contendment and attitude can be altered to a point of concern beyond control. I keep telling myself I must get better, more independent, and somehow stay positive. Sometimes it is hard to do.