How to Live With Chronic Disability

Coping with a chronic disability can be a daily challenge. Chronic illnesses can have a significant emotional and physical impact, as well as directly affect your health and sense of well-being. Learning how to cope with a long-term health condition is a process which requires patience, determination, and an open mind. Taking an active role in dealing with your disability can enable you to feel stronger and better able to manage your condition. There are a variety of coping strategies available to help those living with a chronic disability.

Instructions

• 1

  Support groups help the chronically disabled person cope.

  Join a support group established for people with chronic disabilities. Talking to other people that share similar challenges can help you feel less isolated, as well as enable you to learn from others' experiences in a positive and supportive environment.

• 2

  Counseling aids chronic disability sufferers.

  Talk to a counselor. A counselor can teach you coping mechanisms and implement strategies to help you cope with your disability. Counselors can also work with your family and friends to provide them with the guidance necessary to understand your condition and limitations.

• 3

  Stay mentally or physically active to cope with your chronic disability.

  Stay as active as your disability will allow. Remaining physically or mentally engaged in activities you enjoy will keep your spirits up, provide a distraction from your disability, and help you maintain a positive outlook. Seek out new interests if your chronic disability prevents you from participating in activities you enjoyed in the past.

• 4

  Discuss your disability challenges with friends and family and accept their support.

  Keep in touch with friends and family. Don't isolate yourself or shut your loved ones out. Your friends and family can provide you with the emotional support you require in coping with your disability. Discuss the challenges you face and allow them to help.

• 5

  Eating healthy can ease symptoms of depression sometimes associated with chronic disabilities.

  Eat a healthier diet. Following a healthy diet can improve your mood and potentially alleviate feelings of depression you might experience due to your chronic illness. Choose foods high in protein, such as lean poultry and fish, as well as plenty of fruits and vegetables.

• 6

  Sleep is necessary to cope with chronic disability challenges.

  Get enough sleep. Dealing with a chronic disability can be physically draining, so it's important that you have enough energy to cope with your daily challenges.