– Julian Seifter –
Living with a chronic condition can be a challenge
Let us help you
Chronic illnesses affect people in many ways – the impact of yours or your loved one’s illness can create ripples across various parts of your life. You may find yourself comparing your life to the life you had before your illness, perhaps questioning “why me … I didn’t ask for this … this is not the life I wanted”. Your illness may have been caused through no fault of your own, such as in a car or workplace accident. Both your body and mind have paid the price. Aches and pains that may be debilitating at times, depression, anxiety, fatigue, problems sleeping, relationship issues, and side effects from treatments or medications often go hand-in-hand with chronic diseases. Sometimes you may barely recognize the person you’ve become, or the life you’re leading.
The uncertainty about your health and life can be scary and you may be frustrated because, despite treatments and your best efforts, you continue to struggle with symptoms and limitations in your day-to-day life. If you’re no longer able to work, financial worries may be a significant source of stress for you and your family. If you are unable to take time off from work to recover, you may barely be making it through your workday, having little to nothing left at the end of your work day to give to your family and friends.
No one understands what i am going through
You don't have to struggle alone
Your family, friends and coworkers just don’t understand. They tell you you’re looking better, encourage you to keep pushing through. If you are off work, you may feel inundated with questions about when you’re planning to return to work. The thing is …. you just don’t feel better … you’re tired of pushing through … tired of pretending you’re fine … just tired overall.
You miss your old life – your life before illness
You can find wellness again
Your time now seems taken up with appointments with health care providers, treatments focused on helping you get better, dealing with the effects of your illness or its treatments. What used to be simple tasks, such as washing dishes, getting up in the morning, or going for a walk are much more difficult. They require so much more effort, so much planning, so much help. You worry that you’re a burden to your family and friends. That it’s exhausting to be around someone who is sick, and you often find yourself cancelling plans because you aren’t feeling up to attending social events. If you are a caregiver, you may be exhausted trying to balance working your job, with supporting your family member, and the extra tasks that may now fall to you.
Consider this: Maybe it’s time for you to reach out to someone outside of your “circle”. Rather than struggling alone… or pushing through the pain so that others don’t worry about you, and to avoid talking about your health. Talking to someone who can listen, support and guide you through these difficult times may be the key right now.
Our team is here for you
Compassion is our passion
Our team has specialized training and many years of experience in hospitals, community mental health agencies, and in private practice. We have been privileged to learn from clients and other health care providers about how chronic illnesses impact the lives of people struggling with their physical and mental health. During our work together, you can expect to experience compassion, warmth, and a sense of understanding as we work together through the issues that brought you to therapy. Chronic physical and mental illnesses create challenges that are difficult to face, but your illness does not have to define or control you. We can help you understand the connection between your physical and mental health, and can teach you strategies to move you towards a life that is filled with balance, connection, and purpose. We will meet regularly and through support, compassion, and encouragement, we will explore the challenges that are creating barriers to your wellbeing.
Knowledge is power
Want to learn more about chronic illness? Check out Cynthia's interview with the Colorectal Cancer Canada
Early diagnosis of serious diseases, and advances in available medical treatments have significantly improved survival rates for individuals with serious health conditions. Despite these advancements, those living with serious health issues still face obstacles in managing symptoms, maintaining quality of life, and preventing complications. Many people who have been diagnosed with conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis survive serious diseases, but must adjust to lifelong challenges. These conditions may limit daily activities, cause physical discomfort, and/or lead to emotional difficulties. Treating those living with serious health challenges requires a comprehensive treatment approach that includes psychological support to address the emotional challenges that can occur when living with a chronic condition.
Are You Ready To Make Change? Let's Talk
Give us a call – let’s talk about how we can help. Call : 226-271-1387, or fill out the contact form below.
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Connecting is your first step towards healing. Reach out and start your journey today.
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