Having a chronic illness can drain you physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. The worst part is that stress often sneaks up when you are juggling managing symptoms, appointments, and daily life chores all at once. Almost all individuals with a chronic illness tend to feel overwhelmed.
A ScienceDirect study indicated that people with certain chronic diseases suffered from extended periods of mental health issues. These diseases include asthma, cholesterol disease, coronary heart disease, and kidney disease. Imagine not just being ill physically, but also losing control over your mental well-being.
But there is good news. Some practical strategies can help you cope and regain a sense of balance. You can deal with the tough days and find moments of joy and resilience by practicing self-care and building support networks.
#1: Be Watchful About the Early Signs
Burnout does not happen overnight; rather it occurs over time. You should pay attention to early warning signs like increased irritability, fatigue, sleep disturbance, or losing interest in daily activities that you enjoy.
According to News Medical, a new tool has been developed to spot the early signs of burnout. The Department of Psychology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) has created it to assess workplace burnout. However, there is hope for others too, including those dealing with symptoms due to a severe disease.
You may get exhausted from daily tasks. Also, thinking about your symptoms may flare up anxiety more often. However, you can take action before things get worse. Listen to your body, as it may give some signals that it’s time to slow down and recharge.
Moreover, you can make small adjustments like taking more rest or asking for help before you reach a breaking point.
#2: Build a Support System
The Mayo Clinic highlights the significance of support groups for people struggling with critical situations and stressful life changes. Building a support network of friends, family, and even online communities can be a lifesaver for patients.
Spend time with people who listen without judging and understand your ups and downs.
Sometimes, being vulnerable in front of your loved ones can decrease mental load. Even opening up to strangers in a group of patients suffering from similar diseases can help.
You should never feel afraid to reach out when you need help. Loved ones can help by just offering a ride to the doctor or providing a friendly ear. Support networks offer practical guidance and remind you that you are cared for and not alone in your journey.
#3: Seek Professional Care
Dealing with chronic illness burnout often requires more than just willpower. Reach out to formal providers when you need medical attention. These include doctors, therapists, or counselors who can understand your condition and offer you practical guidance.
They can assist you in adjusting your treatment plan, provide coping strategies, or address mental health problems. Sometimes, just having a professional validate your experience can increase reassurance. You may feel that you are feeling stuck and anxious, or your symptoms are getting worse. Healthcare professionals can offer new perspectives and better solutions at such times.
However, shortage and accessibility problems may hinder professional care for the chronically ill. Fortunately, roles like psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners are filling the skill gaps. A growing number of nurses are pursuing the online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner degree for additional credentials and opportunities.
According to Cleveland State University, the degree makes nursing professionals capable of developing evidence-based care for mental health disorders. They can help people suffering from episodic, acute, and chronic mental health disorders.
#4: Cultivate a Positive Mindset
Being optimistic when dealing with a chronic illness does not mean forgetting your struggles. It is all about being grateful and hopeful in the small moments. You should focus on your strengths and celebrate even the tiniest victories.
Be with uplifting people, read inspiring books, or listen to soothing music. Practice gratitude by writing down one thing that makes life worthwhile each day. Remember that setbacks are temporary and remind yourself that tough days will pass by.
A positive mindset would not erase traces of your illness or cure you for good. However, it can make the healing journey easier and help you bounce back from burnout with renewed resilience.
#5: Prioritize Your Mental Health
As NIH reports, chronic illness is closely linked with depression. Anxiety, brain changes caused by the disease, and medication side effects elevate the risk of depression in such patients. People having both a chronic disease and depression suffer from more severe symptoms of both illnesses.
This is why you need to pay as much attention to your mental health as the physical treatment of your disease. Spare some time for activities that relax and recharge you. These activities could be recreation, meditation, journaling, or gentle movement.
Furthermore, have an open conversation about your feelings with someone you trust or a mental health professional. Practice self-love on tough days and celebrate small achievements. Set boundaries and be assertive when you need to safeguard your energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does chronic illness affect you emotionally?
Suffering from a chronic illness can trigger a range of emotional states. These may include anxiety, sadness, anger, and even depression. Many people grieve the loss of their earlier lifestyle and struggle with adjusting to new limitations. Having emotional distress is common, and some may develop affective disorders like depressive disorder, insomnia, or extreme anxiety.
What are the psychological stages of chronic illness?
People with chronic illness often move through a series of stages similar to the 5 stages of grief. These may include denial, bargaining for time, anger, anxiety and depression, and loss of self and confusion. The final stage brings an acceptance of illness and approaching death. These stages are not always linear. Moreover, individuals may revisit stages before reaching acceptance of their new reality.
Can a nurse offer emotional support to patients?
Yes. Nurses offer crucial mental health support through active listening, empathy, and compassionate talking. They help patients express fears and worries, validate their feelings, and create a secure, supportive environment. This emotional care can significantly improve a patient’s psychological health and overall well-being during illness.
Dealing with a chronic illness is not just a physical challenge but an ongoing emotional journey. Being aware of the emotional impact and the psychological stages you may experience can help you deal with this path with greater awareness and compassion for yourself.
Emotional support from friends, loved ones, nurses, or professionals is vital and can create a significant difference in your well-being. This holistic approach to your health allows you to balance your both body and mind, fostering hope and resilience.
