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Diagnosed With a Chronic Condition?
Here Are Some Tips to Deal

Maybe you just got your diagnosis. Or perhaps it’s been a couple of weeks, and you’re still finding it hard to wrap your head around. Getting yourself adjusted to news of your chronic condition can be challenging - one day, you’re okay and ‘normal,’ and the next - your entire life is in upheaval.

We feel for you, really. We even believe that a bit of grieving is necessary. But instead of letting yourself go and staying in that dark place - it’s time to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and stop letting your illness define you. Here, Pain Relief Massage and Wellness gives you tips on how to move past the big news.

Find Lifestyle Changes That Work for You

The harsh fact of it all is that you’re going to have to play around with minor changes to your habits. There’s no one size fits all approach that will magically cure your illness. Start with what your doctor tells you will be of benefit, and then branch out into your own research. With a chronic condition, your health and body might be more fragile, which is all the more reason to implement holistic changes that add up to significant improvements.

And the vital advice is nothing revolutionary - quit smoking, eat lots of fruit and veggies, get a solid amount of sleep each night and move your body consistently every day - but they work. If you’re struggling with getting your diet going, refer to specialized nutritionists to receive personalized advice and support. The correct feedback and accountability can help you build habits and a routine that will make the transition to your new normal easier.

Keep the Stress at Bay

According to the American Psychological Association, about 50% of Americans self-identify as being in a stressful state of being. You likely have more significant stresses than work or relationship strains, so you’re going to have to prioritize keeping calm and collected. Try to zen out every day to some meditation or work on a hobby (cooking, baking, sewing, writing) that soothes you. Inc.com reports that music can relax you by up to 65%, so be sure to listen to calming music too.

Connect With Your Community

Although it may feel like it, remember that you are never alone. Sign up for a support group or lean on other friends and family who’ve undergone similar experiences. This will help you feel supported and understood. The chances are that you’ll encounter individuals who are thriving despite their conditions, which can be inspiring and motivating in your journey. 

At the same time, be sure to set boundaries with your loved ones. You may have to cancel plans occasionally or prioritize your physical and mental well-being before others. Just place these boundaries upfront, so your support system knows what to expect from you.

Consider Your Living Situation

In some cases, your house can contribute to your condition. Whether it’s based on the location, the state of your home or even managing upkeep. If you need a healthier living space, it’s worthwhile to consider moving to a new house, preferably closer to work, your doctors and grocery shopping. Before you dive into looking at home listings, be sure to check out the local housing market in general to get an idea of trends, inventory and average pricing. 

It’s Okay to Ask For Help

In fact, it’s very much encouraged! Whether it's your doctor, boss, or parents, understand that it is okay to ask for help. Don’t be embarrassed or shy, and put that pride far, far away. Your network is here to uplift you and support you, so if you’re feeling like a burden, work on yourself actively to accept help. After all, you’d help your friends too when needed, right?

Stay Organized

Your condition may have you seeing lots of doctors as well as therapists for massage, counseling or even acupuncture. It’s possible you’ll also spend more out of pocket on medications. Because of this, it’s important to keep track of all your receipts and medical bills, especially if you anticipate needing help covering the costs or if you need to send information to your insurance company. To keep files organized and easy to send, always use a PDF file merger when you have a new file to add to the system. This ensures everything is in the same place and is easier to find.

Navigating these new waters can be intimidating. Not only will you be grappling with new symptoms, starting treatment, and implementing strict doctor’s orders, but you’ll also likely be dealing with enormous emotional upheaval. The good news is that you’ll be able to influence yourself positively with the right tools and mindset. Be the support your best self needs today!

If you’re looking for relief from chronic pain, consider working with Pain Relief Massage and Wellness on a regular basis. We even offer a Get Out of Pain program of four prepaid sessions designed to help you find more relief. Reach out to us today!