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We Need to Talk About Mental Health and Living With Chronic Illness

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When living with a chronic health condition, mental health may not be a priority. We are the regular patients that doctors always see. For most of my life, my chronic illnesses were my doctor’s number one priority. I never had a doctor ask me or even refer me to a therapist, even when I developed medical PTSD, depression, OCD, and an eating disorder in my teens. For years, I felt I had to prioritize my chronic illness over my mental health just so I wouldn’t die. But the truth is I was barely surviving.

A year ago, I finally decided I needed to seek help. Many people who have chronic illness like myself don’t seek help due to having to prioritize their physical health. The cost of mental health care is another factor that prevents many patients from seeking the therapy they need.

Doctors who treat those who are chronically ill should automatically add mental health questionnaires to their treatment plans. They should automatically provide therapy for those who have become recently disabled, children who are chronically ill, and those who have just undergone surgery. However, until we see those changes in the medical system, here are some things to be on the lookout for and possible ways to cope with having a chronic illness and mental health condition.

Let’s not shy away from the fact that dealing with chronic illness means sometimes our mental health take a hit. Living with chronic illness can be isolating, stressful, painful, and limiting at times. More than 45% of people in the U.S. have at least one chronic illness. About half of adults have at least one chronic illness, and 8% of children 8-17 have a chronic illness or disability. And 1/3 of those who have a chronic illness or a serious medical condition experience depression or have major depressive disorder.

Many factors can lead to major depressive disorder, especially when you’re living with a chronic illness. Always make sure to talk to your doctor if you are feeling a change of mood. Many people with chronic illness take medications that have side effects that can impact emotions. Always discuss these changes and side effects with your doctor.

Research shows that “depression is common among people who have chronic illnesses.” What about other mental illness?

Depression is not the only mental disorder that is prevalent in those who deal with chronic illness. PTSD, anxiety, OCD, and other mental illness are also common. Do your research before your appointment and make sure to express all your concerns when you see your doctor. If you get help from a therapist, ask if you can be assessed for mental health conditions that match your symptoms.

Coping Tips

1. Talk openly with your health care team.

Let your health care team know how you are feeling. If you want mental health check-ups to be a part of their questions they regularly ask you, tell them. Ask your providers for phone numbers and recommendations for a therapist or mental health provider. Sometimes it can be even too tough to pick up the phone and call yourself. Ask your primary care if they could please walk you through the process of getting mental health support.

2. Find a therapist who specializes in chronic illness patients.

Therapists who specialize in treating patients with a chronic illness or disability have a better understanding of what you go through. They can help you understand doctor’s recommendations, along with work through medical PTSD, ableism, and internalized ableism. They can also help you talk through distressing symptoms, chronic pain, depression, and irritability.

3. Cognitive-behavioral therapy or CBT.

Negative self-talk is a common phenomenon in patients with chronic illness. CBT can help change repetitive, negative thought patterns that can be the foundation for depression.

4. Surround yourself with support.

Life with chronic illness can feel lonely and isolating at times. Having physical restrictions can make it hard to connect with others, especially friends and family. But it is essential to surround yourself with support. That support can come from an online community or a support group.

It’s so important to prioritize our mental health when living with a chronic illness. When your doctor asks how you are doing, don’t forget to include your mental health. Your health team is there to assess your whole care and your mental health is a part of that and don’t let anyone forget it (including yourself). Take care of your mind and body today.

Getty image by lorenzoantonucci

Originally published: May 17, 2021
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