By: Shawne Poplar, MA LPC-S Licensed Professional Counselor
Adjusting to a new norm after a chronic illness diagnosis can be a challenging and emotional process. Chronic illness can often require significant changes in the way we live and interact with others, and it can be difficult to adapt to these changes.
Here are a few strategies that can be helpful in adjusting to a new norm after a chronic illness diagnosis:
Seek support
It can be helpful to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist as you navigate the challenges of living with a chronic illness. You're not alone, my friend. Navigating the twists and turns of it can be a rollercoaster, but here's a golden nugget of wisdom: surround yourself with a support squad. Friends, family, or a therapist – they're the MVPs who lend a listening ear and bring a truckload of understanding and support to the table. Don't hesitate to lean on them; they've got your back in this chronic illness adventure.
Find ways to manage symptoms
Working with a healthcare team to develop a treatment plan and finding ways to manage physical and emotional symptoms can help you feel more in control and better able to cope with your illness. Collaborate on a treatment plan, find the sweet spot for managing those physical and emotional twists and turns, and suddenly, you're the director of your own show.
It's all about feeling in control and building up your coping superhero skills. So, round up your healthcare posse, create that battle plan, and show that chronic illness who's boss.
Set realistic goals
Let's talk about goals – the secret sauce to feeling like the captain of your own ship, especially when dealing with chronic illness. It's like creating a roadmap, but here's the catch: Be realistic about what you can tackle and what might be a bit much is the key. Setting these goals isn't just about checking boxes; it's your secret weapon to feeling in control and dodging those frustration and disappointment curveballs. So, be your own goal-setting guru, and let those victories roll in.
Practice self-care
Self-care – a crucial piece of the puzzle when adapting to a new norm. It's like giving yourself a personal recharge. Dive into activities that light up your joy, whether it's sweating it out with some exercise, getting lost in your favorite hobbies, or soaking up quality time with your loved ones.
Seek out resources
There may be online communities or support groups specifically for individuals living with your chronic illness. These can be a great resource for finding support and connecting with others who understand what you are going through.
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