How to keep spirits up when battling chronic illness?

Question

I've had numerous medical problems and surgeries with extended periods of pain and recovery. While I'm doing okay for now (knock wood....), I struggle with depression and anxiety over the past AND the likely future. My medical issues all result from treatment for cancer, over 23 years ago (!!), and I know I'm very fortunate to be doing as well as I am. But many of my surgeries have affected my self-esteem --- not just over body image, but also the overall "purpose" of my life. I'm working on living in the moment, and not mortgaging my future by worrying, but it's a lot easier said than done. Nutrition, laughter, and puppies have helped alot, but sometimes this marathon seems to have taken more from me than I have to give. Please help! (p.s. I'm not really depressed --- have enuf experience in THAT arena to be a freakin' expert --- but more resigned and stressed than sad.)

Answer 1

Welll the only answer i can really tell you is to have a sense of humor about it all. That is what has keapt me going, and still is, but do not use it to mask, casue then they have to get pass the mask to fine you and the things that are really bothering you,,even though you may find that they may think that you are using the humor to mask ,which you could be, but yet you still need that humor to keep you going, just try not to mask your feelings, and emotions, let them see the real you, cause it will really help you in the end.

Answer 2

It sounds like you have had a fairly good handle on things so far but maybe feel burned out a bit. Been there done that.Depression usually occurs on two levels at least. #1 Depletes the stores of seretonin and other brain chemicals that help with stress and illness or chronic pain. That is clinical depression. It can be helpful to ask your MD to switch your anti-depressant if after an extended period of time it does not seem to be as effective as before. #2involves emotional and mental stress that also depletes chemical balance in the brain. A good support group is a must for you and family members who help you regularly. You would be suprised how hard it can be on them to see you go downhill and they cannot fix it. Probably a good regimen of vitamins and minerals would be helpful tho ask your MD. You may need to take frequent rest periods, give yourself permission to do it. If your sleep patterns have changed then try to adjust your lifestyle accordingly. I was awake a lot from chronic pain and learned to sleep in and do my chores in the evening when my energy level seems higher. In the mornings I just could not seem to get going at all. Things do change just work with them and keep doing things you enjoy when you can.
If you have a tiring day just prioritize throw the garbage out rinse and stack dishes and lay down til you feel like doing more. Maybe get a chore worker or buy a second set of clothes so you don't do laundry so much. I hope you also have spiritual support from clergy or your faith. luck Ronniea

Answer 3

Hi Kat... do I have a deal for you! Sincerely, e f t might just be the ticket.... when you learn this easily-applied energy technique you will be able to bring down your anxiety AND start living life again with hope and excitement and the dreams that you let drop just to stay on the survival train. Go to http://www.emofree.com/AffiliateWiz/aw.aspx?B=1&A=529&Task=Click&TargetURL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.emofree.com and scroll to the end of the page to learn how to do this for yourself.

God bless!