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It was a moment in time that could never be recalled—a split second that would change a life.

One, two, three steps, lunge. There was an ill-advised dive into shallow water, resulting in fractured 5th and 6th cervical vertebra. Paralyzed from the neck down.

Anyone who lives with a disability knows that what follows an accident like this—among other things—is intense isolation from the world as you know it.

That’s how it affected me. One moment I was a college senior, ski instructor, and professional musician with the world at my fingertips.

The next moment and for years afterwards, I no longer belonged in the world around me. I was different. Disabled. Call it what you want, I felt isolated.

Rehabilitation specialists say isolation is one of the most serious problems they deal with.

Dr. Stephen Sheppard, a clinical psychologist associated with the University of Utah Hospital Rehabilitation Center in Salt Lake City, says that social isolation is the number one problem he sees in people with spinal cord and other debilitating injuries.

“Social isolation contributes to depression, anxiety, and insecurity,” he maintains. “It presents a significant barrier to emotional well being for people with physical disabilities.”

A related problem for those who have limited mobility and transportation is simply physical isolation.

“Environmental stimulation—getting out and going places—is also important to emotional health,” says Dr. Sheppard. “Research has shown that physical touch is very important for emotional and mental health.

So how do you deal with the isolation that follows a physical disability?

“Get out and meet people—consistently,” says Dr. Sheppard. He quoted a study that revealed that people who moved into a new apartment building were most likely to become friends with people who lived next door, next most likely to become friends with those who lived two doors down and so on.

“Proximity is key,” he said. The point of the study is simply this: spending time repeatedly and consistently with people is the best way to develop and nurture new relationships.

For people who are dealing with the trauma and self-image problems of a recent physical disability such as a spinal cord injury, this can be extremely challenging.

“You have to intentionally put yourself in locations where you can meet people,” says Dr. Sheppard. “It’s important to overcome fear and self-image problems and muster up the motivation to get out and do it.”

According to Dr. Sheppard, while it’s true that people tend to gravitate to people with similarities, it’s not the most important thing. It’s more important to meet people repeatedly and consistently. 

That’s where disaboom.com, with its online community and programs like the University Rehabilitation Center’s TRAILS (Therapeutic Recreation and Independent LifeStyles) can help.

They’re a good way to meet others with common interests and they create opportunities to get out and socialize.

“But don’t let the online community become a substitute for getting out and meeting people face to face,” cautions Dr. Sheppard. “Give yourself the opportunity to meet people repeatedly and consistently. Staying at home won’t do it.”

Whether your interests are in outdoor recreation, movies, book clubs, volunteering, or otherwise, the online community can help you find others with similar likes and dislikes. Just remember what the voice on the cruise line ad says . . . and ”Get Out There.”