Chronic Health and Pain
I often work with adults who are struggling with chronic pain conditions, neurological conditions (stroke, acquired brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease), and those with other chronic health conditions. I understand that the wellbeing and lives of people experiencing these conditions change, and there is an overwhelming sadness and grief for the life they once had. I have seen people struggle navigating through their new abilities, changed roles, income, identity, sleeplessness, fatigue, future, and caring needs. As much as there is adversity through all these changes, there is also so much strength and resilience, and I am grateful that people have trusted me to help navigate through this with them.
the connection between mental and physical health
It is well known that having particular chronic health conditions can impact on a person's mental health. Some of the symptoms of a person's condition may worsen their mental health and vise versa. For instance, a person may find it hard to sleep when they are feeling depressed or anxious. This may also be prevalent with pain, and as you can imagine, restful sleep can be difficult to achieve. When people have been living with a condition for so long, it can be difficult to address aspects of their wellbeing like their mental health as their focus has been on their physical health for so long. People may also minimise their mental health, often stating "oh well, that is just the way it is. What can I do?" and become helpless with their reality. It pains me to see people put off seeking mental health support because of these reasons. I encourage people to reconsider and reflect on their wellbeing during their journey, as improving one's mental health can enhance their enjoyment with life and can even make coping with the symptoms of their physical health that much easier to deal with.
manage the effects of your chronic health issues
Everyone is different, and the things they struggle with can vary. You might want to consider getting help with:
- Sleeping better
- Reducing flare-ups
- Learning ways to adjust and cope with your new found abilities
- Identifying meaningful goals for yourself and setting yourself up with meaningful activities
- Managing fatigue and conserving energy
- Self care and relaxing activities
- Problem solving through barriers in your life
- Anxiety
- Managing worries and unhelpful thoughts
Get in Touch
Ph: 0493565934
F: 02 83676432
E: info@connect2healthpsychology.com.au
W: Connect2HealthPsychology.com.au
Hours of Operation: Tues 9am till 4pm and Thurs 9am till 3pm (AEST) or by appointment
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Please note that we are not a crisis service. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or do not feel safe, please contact the following services:Lifeline - 13 11 14Mental Health Line - 1800 011 511Emergency - 000