Coping with Chronic Illness

Many aspects of chronic illness impede the well-being of a patient's life, and sometimes when they are overwhelmed it can lead to depression. However, the impact that chronic illness may have on a patient's life can vary depending on the severity of their illness. Although most chronic illnesses are not immediately fatal, the symptoms can linger for years, and over time the implications placed upon an individual can be devastating. Sometimes we may think we are weak, and we unintentionally create hurdles in our minds that prevent us from moving forward or place limitations upon ourselves. Chronic illness can force many stressful lifestyle changes and may also create feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. Individuals must learn to adapt to live with their illness, as they fight to cope, manage, or even to have a chance at recovery. Nothing in life is easy, especially when you are fighting an ongoing illness that challenges you every single day.

“Behind every chronic illness is just a person trying to find their way in the world. We want to find love and be loved and be happy just like you. We want to be successful and do something that matters. We’re just dealing with unwanted limitations in our hero’s journey.” – Glenn Schweitzer

“There are plenty of difficult obstacles in your path. Don’t allow yourself to become one of them.” – Ralph Marston

 “We are stronger in the places we have been broken.” – Ernest Hemingway

“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to just try one more time.” – Thomas Edison

Coping with chronic illness is never easy, and it's a constant daily struggle. Since I suffered multi-organ failure and two strokes, it has been a constant struggle to cope with my chronic illness and disability. Overcoming and coping with so many obstacles and challenges, you eventually learn to adapt and persevere. I have experienced overwhelming adversities with chronic illness and disability, and I have overcome many obstacles and challenges along my journey. My mental strength helped me to overcome the obstacles and enabled me to work through the challenges I faced. It is impossible to do this alone, and a vital support system of family and friends, and your medical care team can make a huge difference in your well-being. I fight the fight, for I know my plight. It is important not to give up the fight, especially when you understand that you may have a difficult journey ahead. I can attest that I have been tested on so many levels over the years, it has only made me stronger and has given me the grit and strength to persevere.

"You have no idea what I have been through or how hard I have tried to wait out, overcome, and make the best of a devastating illness that has slowly made all of my dreams more and more difficult to achieve." - Whitney Dafoe

“When the unthinkable happens, the lighthouse is hope. Once we choose hope, everything is possible.” – Christopher Reeve

“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from indomitable will.” - Mahatma Gandhi

“Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it.” - Tori Amos

“I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.” - Maya Angelou

It is necessary to understand that if at some point we all need help, it is ok to ask for help and seek the help you need the most. Patients suffering from chronic illness often live with their condition over an extended period, and it feels and seems endless at times. The longer the condition persists, the more impact it has on the lives of everyone concerned. In coping with their chronic illness, patients must have a positive support system of family and friends. Empathy and understanding are vital to the patient's continued success and well-being. The love and support that they receive, can make a tremendous difference with the care that they are shown. The successful outcome of ongoing treatment is reliant on a strong support system of friends and family. Sacrifices are required by all those concerned, while it may not be easy for everyone, the rewards are worthwhile. I believe that counseling can improve the quality of life for patients. While counseling can help patients live a healthy lifestyle, the therapeutic value can give them the hope and encouragement they need.

“Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.”

- Dale Carnegie

“Sometimes you will be in control of your illness and other times you’ll sink into despair, and that’s OK! Freak out, forgive yourself, and try again tomorrow.”

– Kelly Hemingway

Some days are better, some days are worse. Look for the blessing instead of the curse. Be positive, stay strong, and get enough rest. You can’t do it all, but you can do your best. – Doe Zantamata

“Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside of you that is greater than any obstacle.” – Christian D. Larson