Chronic Illness & Grief

The way we approach chronic conditions can make a big difference on our mental and physical health.

With every condition that becomes chronic we need to recognize that there can be losses to mourn as the regular lifestyle we had before is being adjusted to a new way of life (Arseneau, 2008).

Next, we can approach the condition from a perspective of radical acceptance. This doesn't mean we approve of the new reality, but it means we accept the facts as they are. For example, Today I have a condition that is rare, painful and I have no control over when it will affect me. Without accepting these facts I cannot change them, or be proactive in making adjustments that anticipate the symptoms.

Self-compassion is the way we approach our self. This can be simple in recognizing your doing the best you can given the circumstances your in. Often when we compare ourselves to others we look at ourselves with judgement. Sometimes we judge ourselves against the unfair assessment of what a healthy person full of energy can do.

The narratives we listen to in our minds can be harsh to play over and over. Yet, thoughts are not facts. And, our  brain is simply pumping thoughts the ways that our lungs pump oxygen. Its serving its function. So, changing our approach to the internal dialogue can have an affect on our outlook on life.

Taking a growth mindset towards a condition is believing that it is not fixed and this is the way it will always be. Rather it is believing that there are things we can do to improve the situation.

And finally, a main approach to chronic conditions is the implementation of the growth mindset. This is through integrating new skills into daily life. As a way of finding a better balance through adjusting to a new normal.

 Check out some of our resources at the shop or in our Chronic Disease Self-Management Program for more ways to help control these symptoms. Or connect with our chronic illness therapist to get online therapy now.