10 Ways to Stay Focused and Positive While Battling Chronic Illness
Living with a chronic illness is difficult for anyone. It can be exhausting and painful, and it can feel like a constant battle to stay focused and positive. It typically
Dealing with a chronic illness can be mentally exhausting.
Living with a chronic illness is no easy feat. The daily struggle of managing symptoms and maintaining a sense of normalcy can take a serious toll on one’s mental health. From scheduling doctors’ appointments and filling prescriptions, to managing chronic pain or keeping up with dietary restrictions, there never seems to be enough time in the day. Even simple tasks like taking a shower or making breakfast can take longer than usual when you’re struggling with a chronic illness. Going through this kind of experience is understandably draining, and sometimes it can feel like you have to push yourself beyond your limits just to make it through the day.
You might also feel misunderstood or isolated from your friends and family, as they may not fully understand what you’re going through. Sometimes you might even feel invalidated by people if they are not able to visibly see the ways in which your chronic illness affects you. It can be overwhelming and exhausting to explain yourself to other people or justify your need for accommodations. These stressors along with the constant uncertainty about your health can cause anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness. It’s important for those dealing with chronic illnesses to prioritize their mental well-being by seeking support, practicing self-care regularly, and recognizing when they need to take breaks or ask for help. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes – you are valid, and you’re not alone in this struggle.
At River Oaks Psychology, we truly care about people who are struggling with chronic illnesses and the associated mental health issues that can stem from their unique experiences. We understand that chronic illnesses can be incredibly challenging to cope with, and we want to do everything in our power to support you. We strive to provide safe and welcoming therapeutic spaces where people can authentically share their stories and find the compassion and encouragement they need to keep going. More than anything, our goal is to help you feel empowered by reminding you that your chronic illness doesn’t define you as a person. It might be a part of your life, but it’s not everything that makes you who you are. You have MANY other qualities and experiences that are just as important and valuable. You are a whole, complete person.
Don’t let your chronic illness hold you back from living the life you want to lead. It might seem like everything is stacked against you, but there are MANY ways to cope and thrive even when your body is working against you.
Therapy can help.
Therapy provides a much-needed support system for individuals living with chronic illnesses, helping them manage their symptoms and cope with the stress and emotional challenges that surface along their journey. Because living with a chronic illness can be exhausting and difficult to accept, our therapists help individuals learn how to process their diagnoses, move toward acceptance, and find ways to live fulfilling lives within the constraints of their condition. Goals of therapy might include developing new coping techniques for pain management, sensory overload, fatigue, and more that you may have previously thought were insurmountable obstacles. Additionally, therapy can provide a safe space to process grief and anxiety about the future. Accepting a chronic illness doesn’t mean giving up hope for improving your life, but rather it’s about learning how to navigate and cope with your chronic illness so that you can live your most empowered life possible.
