CHRONIC ILLNESS/ CHRONIC PAIN

Why do I need to see a psychologist if I have a chronic illness?

Receiving a chronic illness diagnosis can be life changing. Research shows that have a chronic illness like cancer, diabetes, or heart disease may cause additional stress, and this is only normal.

Often times, individuals with chronic illness talk to us about feeling stressed about treatment and its outcomes, having limitations in daily life, adhering to a treatment regimen, and adapting to a new reality.

Temporary feelings of sadness are expected, but if these and other symptoms last longer than a couple of weeks, they may start affecting how you are functioning in everyday life. You may also find yourself worrying about your health.

Individuals with a chronic illness have shared with us that it is helpful to speak to a psychologist to manage mental health stress and symptoms associated with the added demands of having a chronic illness.

What about chronic pain?

We all experience pain at one time or another in our lives. Pain that typically lasts less than 3 to 6 months is called acute pain, which is the form of pain most of us experience.

For some people, pain can be ongoing or go away and then come back, lasting beyond the usual course of 3 to 6 months and negatively affecting a person’s well-being. This is called chronic pain.

Living with daily pain is physically and emotionally stressful. Chronic stress is known to change the levels of stress hormones and neurochemicals found within your brain and nervous system; these can affect your mood, thinking and behavior.

Chronic pain can interfere with your daily activities, social life, energy, and other parts of your life.

Psychotherapy as well as relaxation strategies may be crucial when dealing with chronic pain to ensure that you continue to live a full, rich, and meaningful life in spite of the pain.

What are treatment options for individuals with chronic illness/chronic pain

Research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can be effective for helping youth and adults deal with chronic illness and chronic pain.

If you are interested in receiving support for yourself or your child to help cope with chronic illness/chronic pain, please call (470) 610-0414 to speak with one of our providers. We look forward to working with you!