I have been Diagnosed with a Chronic Condition. What Now?

The number of people living with Chronic Conditions around the world has increased due, in part, to better treatments and longer life expectancies.

 They often find themselves ‘left in limbo’ and relying on internet searches and social media to help them with everyday challenges. There is a need for increased focus on the daily lives of people living with Chronic Conditions. These people need a way to become empowered, take charge, and be The VIPs of their health journey.

Decoding Chronic Health: What's in a Term?

 We hear the terms Chronic Health Conditions, Chronic Disease, and Chronic Illness used and interchanged when reading about or discussing our diagnoses and management with healthcare professionals.

But what do these terms mean?

As defined by The World Health Organisation, a Chronic Health Condition or Chronic Disease “is of long duration and slow progression.” There is also no immediate cure.

A chronic or long-term illness is a term used to describe how you feel and think about your Diagnosis.

How will you adjust to the demands of the illness and the therapy used to treat the condition?

You may find you have additional stresses since chronic illness might change the way you live, see yourself and relate to others.

Adjusting to Daily Life with Chronic Health Conditions

How do you adjust, understand, and live with your Chronic Health Condition daily?

Living with a chronic health condition poses unique challenges that require adjustment, understanding, and a commitment to maintaining overall well-being. Addressing the physical effects of the illness is a crucial aspect of adapting to life with a chronic condition. This often involves developing a personalised approach to managing symptoms, such as incorporating regular physical activity that aligns with your capabilities and seeking assistance with daily tasks. It's essential to strike a balance between staying active and recognising when rest is necessary, allowing the body to recover.

Dealing with treatments can be an overwhelming aspect of managing a chronic condition. This involves adhering to prescribed medications, undergoing therapies, and potentially making lifestyle changes. Staying organised with treatment plans, setting medication reminders, and openly discussing any concerns or side effects with your healthcare team can contribute to a smoother treatment experience.

Clear communication with your healthcare team is essential to ensure the management plan aligns with your needs. You should actively participate in discussions about your condition, treatment options, and potential lifestyle adjustments. Keeping a health journal, noting symptoms and treatment effects, and preparing a list of questions for medical appointments can enhance communication and foster a collaborative relationship with your healthcare team.

Maintaining emotional balance is crucial in coping with the negative feelings that may arise when living with a chronic condition. Engaging in activities that bring joy, practising stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness or meditation. Seeking support from mental health professionals or support groups can improve emotional well-being.

Preserving confidence and a positive self-image can be challenging but essential for overall life satisfaction. Embracing your strengths, setting realistic goals, and celebrating small victories contribute to a positive self-perception. Connecting with others who share similar experiences through support groups or online communities can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Insights from the Healthcare Perspective

While working as a nurse in General Practice and discussing the patient's Chronic Disease Management, there were many questions asked and challenges that the patient faced. These were challenging for me to address, so we would explore each one and, together, come up with a plan of action and goals of care.

Understanding the Condition

Understanding your condition involves learning about its nature, potential triggers, and how it manifests. Educating yourself about the treatment and therapy options available is equally important. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your health, fostering a sense of control over your condition. 

Building Trust in the Healthcare Team

Maintaining trust and confidence in your healthcare team is crucial, especially when recovery may not be possible. Open and honest communication about prognosis, potential challenges, and alternative approaches builds a solid doctor-patient relationship. Seeking second opinions and staying informed about advancements in treatment options can also contribute to your confidence in the care received.

Managing Symptoms

Knowing how to manage your symptoms involves implementing strategies suggested by healthcare professionals, such as dietary changes, stress management, and medication adherence. Regular communication with the healthcare team ensures that your symptom management plan is effective and can be adjusted.

Social Connections in the Face of Uncertainty

Maintaining social relationships and a strong support network is vital for emotional well-being. Friends and family can provide invaluable support during challenging times. Actively participating in social activities, even on a limited basis, helps prevent social isolation, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.

Avoiding Social Isolation

Avoiding social isolation is crucial for mental and emotional health. Despite the challenges posed by a chronic condition, staying connected with loved ones, joining support groups, and engaging in community activities can provide a sense of normalcy and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Conclusion

Living with a chronic health condition involves a multifaceted approach encompassing physical, emotional, and social aspects. By discussing and addressing the various dimensions, you can adapt, understand, and live with your condition more effectively, become The VIP and enhance your overall quality of life.