THE STRESSES OF CHRONIC ILLNESS

Chronic illness is any illness or disease that lasts for months, years, or a lifetime. People with a chronic illness have to work hard at enjoying being well. Being well is more comprehensive than simply physical health. Being well includes health of the mind, emotions, and spirit.

People living with a disease know that their illness is a stressor that needs to be managed. Physical stress may include pain or discomfort, muscle weakness, fatigue, or malaise (flu-like symptoms). Managing activities of daily living is vital to general comfort. Strategy to deal with daily stress from these activities is a daily chore.

It is the perception of an event that creates or removes stress. When diagnosed with a chronic illness, some people see it as a reason to finally take better care of themselves. Others view their illness as a disaster. Whether viewed as a burden or an opportunity, feelings are created by the prevailing thought. Thoughts of disaster or burden can promote feelings of depression and hopelessness. Thoughts of challenge or opportunity can help people cope with the disease and operate from a place of inner strength.

While we may have little control over curing a disease, we can learn to cope with the stress it may cause. People who are successful:

know their stress signals, such as headaches, short tempers, fatigue, anxiousness, diarrhea, aching muscles, or flare-ups of the symptoms of their disease
assess the sources of their stress, change the things they can, and accept what they cannot change
increase their energizers, such as nature, music, and laughter
practice positive self-talk to boost their self-image and to change negative messages and visualize themselves relaxed and happy
dream about lifetime goals and desires, even if they have a terminal illness
have a strong support network--sharing feelings with trusted friends or loved ones
continue to give and to help other people
spend time exploring their connection to life and to others (this may include spirituality and, or, religion)

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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