Chronic Health Concerns

The word “chronic” means long-lasting, referring to the Greek word “Chronos”, or Time. By definition, a chronic health condition is one that stays around for a very long time.  Examples of chronic conditions are chronic pain, diabetes, fibromyalgia, certain types of heart disease, and autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.  Living with a chronic condition presents challenges even for the most competent and resilient person.  Depending on your condition, your challenges may include:

• difficulties with activities that used to be much easier
• loss of work, finances
• an increased need  to set priorities related to how you spend your time, and who you spend it with
• lifestyle changes such as diet
• feeling misunderstood by others who have a limited knowledge of your condition
• changes in appearance and energy level
• uncertainty and fear related to the future
• limited emotional and physical energy for social engagement with others
• changes in sexual activity, desire, energy, or ability
• increased worries, sadness, or irritability
• a changed sense of self – a feeling of not being the same person you used to be

On the other hand, health challenges are not ONLY negative.  Everyone who lives long enough develops one or more chronic conditions.  Illness is part of the human condition, and always has been.  A person can be chronically ill and still live a life that is meaningful, and have relationships that are fulfilling and intimate.  The decision to live a vital, enjoyable life despite illness can be a source of wisdom and pride for those who embark upon that journey.  Illness can be a door to a deeper understanding of what is most important in life, and to greater knowledge of yourself and others.

Unfortunately, few of us grow up with parents or find other mentors along the way who are truly able to teach us the skills needed for coping with difficulties in life. 

Counseling and psychotherapy, in combination with the other treatments you are receiving for your illness, can help you to:

• learn tools for coping with difficult feelings, pain sensations, or symptoms of discomfort
• embrace the perspective that your health problem is only a part of your life, not your whole identity
• educate yourself about how to work and communicate most effectively with the people who are treating your condition
• expand how you experience and express your sensuality and sexuality
• deal capably with other people’s reactions to your health, including friends, family, employers, and coworkers
• rethink what is most important to you, and develop skills to incorporate those things more fully into your life
• explore ways to honor your deepest values, despite your medical challenges

Difficult-to-Diagnose Conditions

You may be dealing with an illness that has been very slow to be diagnosed by your physician. Perhaps you've even gone to multiple doctors, trying to figure out what is wrong with you. You might have combinations of symptoms that are so numerous, or that just sound so strange, that you worry other people doubt you or think you're faking it. It can be very worrisome, even scary, to have symptoms that no one can figure out.

When you're unable to work and function normally for a prolonged period, there is often a cascade of trouble in life resulting in a lack of money, friendship, and supports you assumed you had. You may experience the loss of your “old self”, unable to enjoy even simple pleasures or to accomplish projects. 

You can focus on taking care of yourself- and then worry that people might think you're selfish. Get distracted with attending to other people's needs, or just trying to do the activities that used to seem ordinary, and your symptoms may worsen. It can get very discouraging. Yet still you may hear, or believe yourself, that the underlying reason for your illness is that you're depressed.  This can cause feelings of disappointment and loneliness.

It can be hard to keep up with other people, and when you can no longer do things and go places with your friends, they stop calling. Some just get frustrated, and can't listen to what a hard time you're having. You can end up feeling quite alone, especially when you're spending a lot of time in the house.

We know you don't want to be told that your illness is only in your head. We're here to help you deal with the stress and isolation that are an inevitable part of an ongoing health condition.

 Curious about how we may be able to assist you in coping with medical concerns? You're welcome to give us a call or send an e-mail, and we'll get back to you as quickly as possible.