Many of us will, at some time, have a serious physical illness. Both the illness, and the treatment for it, can affect the way we think and feel.
A serious physical illness can affect every area of your life. Relationships, Work, spiritual beliefs, how we socialize with other people.
A serious illness can make us feel sad, frightened, worried or angry.
It may be because we feel out of control, of our body and our situation generally. We may feel that there is nothing that we can do. We feel lonely and isolated from family and friends. Sometimes it can be difficult to talk about the illness with those close to you. We don’t want to worry or upset them.
For some of us, the emotional impact of a serious physical illness can be overwhelming. Cancer or heart disease, for example, can make us very anxious and depressed. It can stop us from doing the things we need to do in our daily lives.
Why are depression and anxiety more likely to happen if you have a serious physical illness?
People become depressed and anxious when they are stressed for any reason. Being ill and having treatment are stressful. This is probably the most common reason.
Some drug treatments, such as steroids, affect the way the brain works and so cause anxiety and depression directly. Some physical illnesses, such as an under-active thyroid, affect the way the brain works. They cause anxiety and depression directly. Anxiety and depression are common. You may just happen by chance to become anxious or depressed at the same time as you become physically ill.
I have Diabetes what I have learned is that my blood sugars are directly effected by my stress and anxiety levels. What I didn’t realize was that my Diabetes can trigger my anxiety and depression it gets overwhelming and very troubling. I’ve have a million questions in my head and a million worries. I’ve found that educating myself, asking questions and finding a great Doctor who will help you cope with all your symptoms including your Mental health ones.
Karen is a great listener and a solid shoulder to lean on. She has a degree in History and English and a diploma in Counselling Skills. She struggles with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Depression. She understands the importance of having someone to talk to about your struggles. She loves singing, researching her genealogy, cheering for her favorite hockey teams, swimming, hiking and spending time with friends.
You can follow Karen on Twitter @KareBearNS
Defying Shadows 