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Coping with the shock of a chronic illness
or life threatening disease or serious condition can feel as
debilitating as the medical issue itself. While there are no
easy answers to quelling a life altering sickness, there are
a few ways to handle the shock of a terminal illness.
Anger,
trepidation, fear, denial and confusion are a few of the emotions
one may endure with an unexpected diagnosis. It is a prevalent
phenomenon to experience feelings about one’s self-image. An
unusual feeling of vulnerability is not unusual, either. A sense
of unknowing to a loss of control is a common emotional affect
too.
So, the
terminal illness conjures up feelings of the unknown. Use the
following recommendations endorsed by the United States government's
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
Become
empowered Studies show that patients who spend a little time
exploring their alternatives, gathering additional information
and conducting a little research are in better control of their
healthcare. Through physician questions and research, it empowers
an individual to develop a blueprint for their recovery and
treatment.
Confide
in love ones and family Sharing a terminal diagnosis with family
members and friends can be cathartic. Not to mention, it will
leverage the support one needs to get through any procedures,
surgeries and other medical treatments. Additionally, if the
support of a loved one is used, they may pose questions that
the sicke individual may have overlooked.
Also, a
person offering you support can make notes, review information
with your specialist.
Employ
the lines of communication. To take a proactive approach to
your medical condition, establish a line of communication between
you and your specialist or physician. |
