Friday, January 2, 2015

Ways to Cope with Chronic Illness


I know when I started experiencing chronic pain I felt very alone and scared. I want to share some coping skills, I've learned along the way, that have helped me cope with this chronic illness:
  •  Reach out for help- You can find a support group or connect with people online that are going through the same thing as you. This helped in making me feel less alone, in knowing that other people are going through the same thing or something similar to what I am going through.
  • Write in a journal or start a blog- I started a blog to write about what I am going through. It helps me to write down my feelings and works as an outlet to my emotions.
  • Distract yourself- Try reading a book or watching a movie to get your mind off of everything. I love watching movies and find myself watching one everyday. Thank you Netflix and Redbox! =)
  • Find relaxation techniques that work best for you- Some things that I like to do are drink rooibos tea, apply my heating pad, get a massage, stretch, use breathing techniques, and/or take a hot shower.
  • Exercise- I love the way I feel after exercising. Any little bit helps...I know when I first started experiencing chronic pain, even taking a walk was too challenging for me. Yet, I took it really slow, then built myself up to whatever my body could handle. I find it is very important to listen to your body to prevent any additional pain
  • Try to get enough sleep- When I get enough sleep I always feel a little better. It makes me feel happier and feel like I have a little more energy. Sometimes I have trouble sleeping, but I have found it helps to stay on a sleeping schedule.
  • Have fun- Try doing an activity that you enjoy. I like to go on Pinterest and read funny quotes. That is always a good time for me, when I am physically unable to go out and do something.
-These are some of the things that have helped me. What are some things that you do that have helped you cope with your chronic illness?

9 comments:

  1. Things that help me: Staying positive and busy, exercising gently and eating healthy. Some great tips here. thanks. Wishing you a fabulous 2015 from Fibro Blogger Directory and my personal blog Fibro Files

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    1. Those are definitely great coping skills, thank you for sharing! :D Wishing you and Fibro Blogger Directory a fabulous 2015 as well

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  2. Things that help me besides all of the above, I've been doing this a long time now :D my positive approach see the fun in life, not focusing on the disease but on life's everyday miracles, exercise and sauna, nature is one of the greatest healers and also spending time on instagram : ).
    Wish you a fab year with less fibro moments and loads of fun and inspired moments :D Hopefully my Bestwellgoodchoices blog can give you some of that or my youtube

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    1. Yes! I agree : ) Your positive approach on life is very inspiring! Over the years, I started to view life differently. I try to focus on the positive and appreciate all that I have. Thank you for sharing! Wishing you the same! :D I'm going to add your blog to my reading list. =)

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    2. Thank you Jennifer and since i loved to read your post and is a good way to exchange experiences I will add yours as well :D

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  3. These are great coping mechanisms as long as a person is willing. I can identify with you Jennifer. Keep inspiring. I love doing a blog, it is helpful for me as well.

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    1. I agree 100%. Thank you so much for your support! :)

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  4. These are great coping mechanisms as long as a person is willing. I can identify with you Jennifer. Keep inspiring. I love doing a blog, it is helpful for me as well.

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