20 Ways to Cope With a Chronic Illness
I cannot create a better list than what Bridget Gazlay has done. Here is some great advice for anyone suffering from chronic illness. Bridget Gazlay is a freelance writer and artist (and is also chronically ill). She resides in West Michigan. More information: www.pfccreations.com
20 Ways to Cope With a Chronic Illness by Bridget Gazlay
- Find someone to confide in (friend, counselor, pastor)
- Spend time in prayer or meditation
- Journal about your ups and downs
- Tears are okay – let yourself grieve
- Live one day at a time
- Set realistic goals (don’t think about how you used to be, how are you now?)
- Don’t plan too far ahead (not so frustrating when you need to make a change)
- SIMPLIFY! (enough said)
- Ask for help (it may be hard for you, but a blessing for others)
- Be still (it’s okay to rest when your body needs it)
- Find new creative outlets (writing, music, art, prayer)
- Don’t expect perfection
- The dishes can wait!
- Stick up for yourself (with physicians, family or friends)
- Get a second opinion (never feel guilty for doing this; it’s your life!)
- Research “lightly: (do enough to know what you’re dealing with and that’s it; there is no textbook case!)
- Share your pain (support groups, devotional writing)
- Use your time wisely (you can’t get it back once it’s gone)
- Laugh, laugh, laugh
- Be positive (attitude does make a difference)