Everyone needs supportive people in their lives, but after a traumatic injury like a spinal cord injury, supportive people are more important than ever and will play a major role in the speed of your recovery.
Your body, mind and spirit will be going through a lot of new adjustments and you will need your family and friends to boost your spirits and keep you thinking positive. At some point in the early days of your recovery you will meet with a psychiatrist or counselor who will introduce you to people who are in support groups with injuries similar to yours. You'll be heavily encouraged to participate in a support group and talk about how you're feeling and to listen to how others are feeling.
Some people with spinal cord injuries find it comforting and healing to share in this way, while others find it extremely depressing to be in a room and listen to everybody's woes that are the same as theirs. If it makes you feel bad, don't do it. It is important to express your feelings, but you should not feel forced into doing so in an environment that makes you uncomfortable or depressed. Do what makes you feel good and go with your gut instincts. Remember that no one knows you better than you, and there are 1,000 and 1 ways of expressing your feelings.
If support groups or group therapy doesn't feel right to you, explain this to your counselor and tell them that you would rather talk one on one. It's okay, too, if you want to be by yourself and not talk at all for a little while; you have a lot to digest on a daily basis and just might not want to talk about any of it. At some point, though, you need to reach out and talk about all the topsy turvy changes that have been going on in your life. Talk with your family and friends if you are feeling uncertain about talking with a stranger and they can help you find a professional you feel comfortable with.
Don't get frustrated if you don't connect with the first counselor you speak with; it's a very intimate relationship and you might have to meet a few before you find one you are comfortable with. Once you do, though, you will see it is well worth the effort.
Once you are at home, the Internet is a great source for disability chat rooms and support groups. Check out yahoo.com for some good sites.