Effective Ways to Cope with a Chronic Disease

Your Feelings Are Valid

Following a diagnosis of a chronic illness, distress is often felt by the individual. Before receiving a diagnosis, those who are going through a lot of stressful experiences and people with a history of mental illness may be especially vulnerable to psychological distress. However, it can also devastate those with relatively little stress in their lives. Learning about your illness can cause a wave of emotions. Another typical response to a chronic condition is grief. There are several phases of grief that you might go through, including sadness, anger, bargaining, and denial. You might have emotions that go in waves, with acceptance one day and rage the next. It could be beneficial to remind oneself that these emotions are normal and that they will probably pass over time.

How To Cope With A Chronic Disease

Chronic conditions can be managed by adapting to their symptoms and difficulties, which might occasionally change quickly. You can also take control of what’s happening in your life rather than allowing the disease to control you.

Here are some practical methods for managing a chronic illness:

1. Understand your condition

It might enable you to feel empowered to manage your disease if you have the information and knowledge necessary to make the best decisions. Your healthcare provider needs to be aware of your emotional and physical state. Living with a chronic condition can make daily stress worse and have an impact on how you feel about yourself. It might be challenging to control and cure your health if you suffer from depression or anxiety. Your health care professional can assist you in determining the best course of action for dealing with your emotions, which may involve making recommendations for counseling, talk therapy, or medication. Social workers, psychologists, and other mental health professionals can offer crucial assistance in coping with the difficulties of a chronic illness.

2. Acknowledge limitations

This can be challenging and calls for some self-care. It entails accepting that you must look after yourself without feeling guilty or ashamed. Is it more reasonable to assign the task to someone else and solicit their assistance? It's possible that one day won't be enough for you to complete everything on your "to-do" list. Permit yourself to check off the items at the bottom and put them off for another time.

3. Be active and exercise

Do something each day to remind yourself of the wonder and delight of life. Make time to stop for coffee with a loved one or take a different route home and stroll through the park while being attentive to the sights, sounds, and colors you encounter. Your mood can also be enhanced by exercise. Before beginning any workout program, remember to check in with your doctor, and move according to your own pace.

4. Define your support network

You can experience changes in your life and require assistance with duties or emotional support. You might need the help of your relatives, friends, colleagues, support groups, religious or spiritual organizations, and healthcare professionals at various points or for different reasons. Consider your needs and be specific while stating them. Additionally, assistance and resources may be available from national nonprofit groups for your health condition.

5. Identify your purpose

Some people discover their sense of purpose through their relationships with loved ones, friends, and volunteers. Some people turn to spirituality and religion in their search for meaning. Discover your most valuable things in life and what enriches it.

Find The Right Provider For You

Live Well Wellness Center brings a holistic, patient-centered approach to medicine and can help you with chronic disease management. Jessica Schrand, NMD, Michelle McConnell, NMD, Koral Allen, NMD and their team can work with you and your specialists to help you to not only feel better but also improve your health and quality of life. Book your appointment by calling the office or clicking the provided scheduling link now!