Why can coping with a chronic illness be so difficult?
When you are ill with bronchitis or the flu, you know
you will be feeling better and functioning normally within a week or so. A
chronic illness is different. A chronic illness may never go away and can
disrupt your lifestyle in many ways.
What are some effects of a chronic illness?
Pain and fatigue may become a frequent part of your
day. Physical changes from a disease process may occur and affect your
appearance. These changes may diminish your positive self-image. When you don't
feel good about yourself, you may prefer isolation and withdraw from friends and
social activities.
Chronic illness can also influence your ability to function at
work. Morning stiffness, decreased range of motion, and other physical
limitations may require you to modify your work activities and environment.
Decreased work ability can lead to financial difficulties. For the homemaker, a
specific task may take much longer to accomplish. You may need the help of your
spouse, a relative, or a home health care provider. As your life changes, you may
feel a loss of control, and anxiety about the uncertainty of what lies ahead.
Stress
Stress can build and influence how you feel about
life. Prolonged stress can lead to frustration, anger, hopelessness, and, at
times, depression. The person with the illness is not the only one affected.
Family members are also influenced by the persistent health changes of a loved one.
How can I make my life better?
The most important step you can take is to seek help
as soon as you feel less able to cope. Taking action early will enable you to
understand and deal with the many effects of a chronic illness. Learning to
manage stress will help you to maintain a positive physical, emotional, and
spiritual outlook on life.
A mental health care provider can design a treatment plan to
meet your specific needs. Strategies can be designed to help you regain a sense
of control over your life and improve your quality of life, something everyone
deserves. At times, if depression is present, medications other than those
treating the physical illness may be ordered to help regulate your mood.
What kind of help is available?
There are many types of help available for people with
chronic illnesses. Among them are:
Support groups
Support groups are a very useful sharing
experience. They provide an environment where you can learn new ways of
dealing with your illness. You may want to share approaches you have
discovered with others. You will also gain strength in knowing that you are
not facing hardships alone.
Individual counseling
Sometimes people have problems that are better
addressed in a one-on-one atmosphere. By participating in individual
counseling, you may more effectively express sensitive or private feelings
you have about your illness and its impact on your lifestyle and
relationships.
Stressors
- Chronic illness
- Uncertainty of future
- Unpredictability of disease
- Disability
- Financial difficulties
Stress signals
- Disturbed sleep
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Pain
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Tension
- Headaches
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 10/5/2007...#4062
