Maintaining Mental Health While Coping with Chronic Illness

Whenever you have a fever and you’re completely down physically, you become mentally weak too. Have you noticed this? If maintaining good mental health is tough when you’ve fallen sick with just flu, imagine the plight while suffering from chronic illness. Read on to know how you can manage your mental health while battling with chronic illness. Common cold and fever might probably last up to 7- 10 days. But what about chronic illness?

What is a Chronic Illness?

A chronic disease or illness is a health condition that is persistent and lasts for more than 3 months. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that worldwide 63% of people die of some chronic health condition. Common chronic conditions include- diabetes, eczema, arthritis, asthma, genetic disease, cancer, epilepsy, hepatitis and autoimmune disease. What’s tricky while dealing with chronic conditions is that they have periods of remission that is, reduction or disappearance of signs and symptoms. And it could be followed by relapse which is the recurrence of the past condition. Hence, the depression, anxiety and stress associated with chronic illness also come in waves.

The connection between chronic disease and mental health-

A chronic illness diagnosis can significantly change a person’s life. In addition to the daily physical symptoms, individuals may experience emotions like sadness, grief, and denial, along with increased financial stress. Studies indicate that the challenges associated with kidney disease—such as frequent doctor visits, dietary limitations, medication schedules, and uncertainty about treatment results—can lead to psychological distress and a lower quality of life. Mental health issues have also been linked to other chronic conditions, including coronary heart disease (CHD) and asthma.
Asthma impacts daily activities and often involves recurring symptoms, which can also lead to psychological distress.

The mental health issues observed are characterized by the presence of any of the following symptoms: feelings of depression, diagnosed anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or sleep disorders. WHO says, there are approximately 38 million deaths a year to non-communicable chronic diseases. A patient diagnosed with diabetes is typically advised to see multiple specialists annually. However, referrals to mental health specialists are seldom included in their treatment plans.

Mental health problems associated with Chronic Illness

The common emotional impact after chronic diagnosis may include feelings like

• Grief: A chronic illness diagnosis can trigger feelings of grief for lost health and the life one had anticipated. Patients may mourn their former healthy lifestyle and face adjustment issues. This sense of loss can result in extended grieving, impacting relationships and overall quality of life.
• Denial: Some patients may struggle with denial about their diagnosis, which can hinder the effective management of their condition. Denial can manifest as avoiding medical appointments, neglecting treatment protocols, or downplaying symptoms. This avoidance can prevent individuals from seeking necessary support and care, ultimately impacting their mental and physical health.
• Isolation: Chronic illness can lead to social withdrawal due to physical limitations or the emotional toll of managing health. Patients might feel misunderstood by friends and family who cannot relate to their experiences, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. This social disconnect can further exacerbate mental health problems.
• Coping challenges: Patients often face challenges in developing effective coping strategies for their condition. Without proper support, they may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or neglecting self-care.

Major psychological problems include-

Depression:

Individuals with chronic diseases are more likely to experience depression.

Symptoms are triggered by

• Severe anxiety and stress.
• Neurological changes happen in the case of Parkinson’s or following a stroke.
• The prescribed medications for the chronic illness.

Studies have shown that those who have both chronic disease and depression often face more intense symptoms of both conditions. And people who are diagnosed with depression can develop chronic diseases.

Common signs and symptoms of depression include:

1. Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness.
2. Hopelessness, irritability, or restlessness.
3. Loss of interest in activities and hobbies.
4. Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and sleep issues.
5. Physical pains without clear causes and thoughts of death or suicide.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) affects 51% of individuals with Parkinson’s disease, 42% of cancer patients, 27% of those with diabetes, 23% of cerebrovascular patients, 17% of cardiovascular patients, and 11% of Alzheimer’s patients.

Anxiety

Chronic diseases often bring along a lot of uncertainties about health outcomes and treatment effectiveness, resulting in increased anxiety. Patients may become worried about how the disease is progressing, how the disease affects their daily lives and potential complications that may come. This persistent worry can lead to other conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, or specific phobias related to their illness.

Stress

There are many challenges in managing a chronic condition like frequent hospital visits, following the prescription, and lifestyle changes that can cause considerable stress. This can make an individual very overwhelmed and cause chronic stress Additionally, it may worsen physical symptoms, creating a loop that complicates disease management.

Anxiety and depression frequently occur together and are tough to differentiate. Therefore, it is important to examine the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression in individuals with chronic illnesses and to identify the risk factors that may lead to these conditions.

Managing mental health with Chronic Illness

The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry states, “It’s essential to consider the emotional well-being of patients, particularly when they are managing multiple conditions.” Some ways to manage include –

• Actively acknowledge: Accepting your chronic illness is the first step towards effective management. Learn about your condition, its causes and remedies, what to expect, and strategies to bring down the symptoms for a better quality of life.
• Valuing Yourself: Living with a chronic illness doesn’t change your core personality. While some small or major adjustments to your lifestyle may be necessary, remember that you are still the same wonderful person. Be compassionate with yourself and focus on your abilities rather than the changes you face.
• Connect with people: Chronic illness can lead to feelings of isolation. To combat this, engage with others who share similar experiences. Look for local support groups and other online resources that can give you moral support.
• Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is your duty ultimately. Eating well, having fixed sleep-wake cycles and exercising at least 3-5 days a week will boost your self-efficacy. Meditation, yoga and breathing techniques calm the mind, so include it in your daily routine. Healthy lifestyle choices and attention to your mental health can enhance your ability to manage your chronic condition successfully.

If the symptoms worsen, going for CBT -Cognitive Behavioural Therapy helps people to mentally cope while suffering with chronic illness.

• Group therapy provides a space for connecting with people who understand your struggles which gives a sense of belonging and reduces isolation. So participation in support groups are effective method for addressing the mental and emotional challenges of living with a chronic illness.
• Research has indicated that participating in ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and practising mindfulness techniques can alleviate the intensity of pain, depression, and anxiety.
• Role of health care professionals – Hope is very important for coping and clinicians play a key role in giving realistic hope. Giving hope is particularly important for long-term survivors of HIV and breast cancer. Martin Luther King Jr said, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”

As awareness of the relationship between mental and physical health increases, effectively managing chronic illness demands a more integrated approach that combines mental health services with primary and speciality care. Share this article with someone who is suffering and let them know they’re not alone.

FAQs

1. How Can I Cope with Anxiety related to my chronic illness?

Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can help manage anxiety. Also seeking support from mental health professionals or joining support groups can help you.

2. What role does Physical activity play in mental health for chronic illness patients?

Regular physical activity can boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Even gentle exercises, like walking or stretching, can be very fruitful.

3. How can I maintain a Positive outlook despite my Diagnosis?

Focus on what you can control, set achievable goals, and celebrate small victories. Surround yourself with friends and family, and do all the activities that bring you joy and fulfilment.

4. How can family and friends support someone with a chronic illness?

They can non-judgementally listen to you, offer encouragement, help you participate in social activities, and shower patience. Understanding the emotional and physical challenges can also help them provide better support.

5. What should I do if I experience feelings of Hopelessness?

Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.

6. How can I balance managing my illness and maintaining my mental health?

Create a routine that includes time for self-care and your daily treatment procedure. Setting boundaries and prioritizing activities that promote mental well-being can help maintain balance.