From cancer to diabetes to heart disease, many people will experience at least one chronic health condition in their lifetime. A special focus is on breast cancer this month, since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. These diseases present substantial physical burdens, but the toll of chronic illness on mental health should not be overlooked.

Chronic Illness and Mental Health

With an illness like a cold or flu, there is an end in sight. With a chronic illness, though, there is inherent uncertainty about how long the battle to overcome the illness will be. Once that battle is behind you, there may also be a lingering fear of recurrence.

A chronic disease diagnosis can have many different immediate negative consequences that affect mental health:

  • Disruption in daily routine, in order to accommodate treatment/medical appointments
  • Feelings of isolation from others who haven’t had a similar diagnosis
  • Depressed mood
  • Trouble focusing, with thoughts preoccupied by the diagnosis
  • Feelings of being overwhelmed in the search for information to understand the diagnosis
  • Fear of incapacitation and death

Over time, the physical challenges also create factors that increase the risk of mental illness.

  • Decline in physical activity
  • Financial concerns from high medical bills
  • Prolonged stress
  • Disruption in sleep patterns

If not addressed, these can become chronic problems in their own right. The CDC says people who suffer from a chronic disease are more likely to also deal with depression. Anxiety is also commonly reported.

Supporting Mental Health

Just as many chronic health conditions come with treatment plans, the mental health challenges created by these diagnoses can often be treated as well.

The first step is finding a safe, professional outlet to talk to about what you are thinking and feeling. While your health provider focuses on your physical healing, you can ask them to refer you to someone who can address your mental health challenges. You can also use Jax Therapy Network’s searchable database of local, licensed therapists and counselors to find someone who specializes in coping with chronic illness.

You may specifically find comfort in support groups. If you feel as though your friends and loved ones don’t truly understand what you’re dealing with and/or people are invalidating your feelings, then connecting with people who have received similar diagnoses can help.

When possible, focus on each day and not the long road ahead. A chronic illness can- understandably lead to constant anxiety about what the future holds. That mindset, however, leaves little room for the small, daily victories that can help bolster your spirit. Be intentional about those little victories- time for family, hobbies, pets, friends, and other things that will fill you with joy.

Steps to support your physical health can also help restore not only some sense of control, but in turn, benefit your overall wellbeing. This includes a regular exercise regimen and healthy eating habits. Self-care is something you should also build into your routines, taking time to meditate, journal, go for a walk, or whatever will help you focus on your mental and emotional well being.

Ready to find your therapist? Search the Jax Therapy Network and find help coping with chronic illness through therapy and counseling services in and around Jacksonville Florida. with therapy from professional therapists and mental health counseling support.