One of the reasons why people are afraid to go to a medical doctor is because they fear their possible diagnosis. They are quite hesitant to undergo a medical checkup so that they will not get updates about their current health condition, especially if the results are not great. According to psychologists, this kind of fear is only usual because everyone is not ready to face the reality that he or she might be sick.
In today’s article, our focus would be on the stress that any person could get the moment he finds out that he has an autoimmunity. Take note that as of this time of writing, experts claim that there are around 80 kinds of autoimmune diseases that can affect anyone. If you recently found that you are one of its victims, be sure to read this article as we are going to share some techniques on how you can best handle the stress and anxiety accompanying your illness.
Before anything else, it is crucial for you to understand that the feeling of stress and anxiety is only normal. However, it does not mean that you will allow it to diminish your mental health and make you sicker. What matters the most is that you have the willpower to eliminate it and be strong despite having a severe medical condition. Here are the other tips and tricks to remember:
Trust Your Doctor
Stress is a manifestation of your endless worry and exhaustion about your current status. You are afraid that the disease can take a toll on your life. Instead of getting carried away with this fear, it is best if you will put all your trust to your doctor. You must believe what he says to you, particularly on the type of medicines to take. If you want, you can also ask for a second opinion so that you will have peace of mind. The more you trust your physician, the easier it is on your part to act calmly. In the long run, it can eliminate worries.
According to Saundra Jain, MA, PsyD, LPC, “Mindfulness meditation practices are effective interventions, and sometimes for mild to moderate conditions—depression and anxiety—super-effective as front lines.”
Confide To A Friend
Autoimmune diseases may or may not be painful, but only one this is for sure, and that is the fact that it will always cause inconvenience or difficulty on your part. Because of these challenges, you will find yourself in a constant state of stress and anxiety. During these times, it is best if you will connect with a good friend who can help you process your thoughts and emotions. All you must do is to get in touch with this individual and accept his helping hand. Do not hesitate to tell him about your problems so that you can somehow feel relief within yourself. Talking to someone about your condition is a surefire way to ease your physical and emotional pain.
Be With Your Loved Ones
As much as possible, spend most of your time with the people who matter in your life. Always see to it that you share quality time with your loved ones. The more days you share with them, the happier you will become. Their presence can bring in more positivity and good vibes in your days. You will be amazed at how their touch and words can make you feel comfortable regardless of the illness that you have. Hence, it is suggested that you learn how to reach out to your family members or partner. Never let one single day pass without letting them know how much you appreciate their continuous support and unconditional love.
Stress can lead to depression. According to Deborah Serani, PsyD, “Depression is an insidious, isolating disorder, which can sabotage relationships.”
Keep Yourself Busy
Another smart way of dealing with the stress brought by your medical condition is to spend some time doing something new. Be brave enough to invest time and effort into a new passion. Discover a new hobby or join a new organization with a humanitarian purpose. All that you have to remember is to seek for something that can keep yourself busy. The moment this happens, it will be easier for you to take your mind off the disease. You will start to think less about your condition and more about the things that you are passionate about.
Life is too short to keep on worrying about worthless matters. Promise yourself to live life to the fullest no matter what it takes.
“Sometimes the stigma of mental illness gets in the way of people getting the help they need,” said Jessica Koblenz, PsyD.