Living with a chronic condition can be difficult – it can even be overwhelming – and it’s definitely going to be a challenge, no matter how the condition might actually affect you and manifest itself. It could be anything from arthritis to diabetes to asthma to eczema or perhaps chronic pain, but if it’s affecting your life, then you need to do something about it. 

You might think that’s not possible, especially if you understand your condition well, but the fact is that although it might not be possible to actually cure the condition and you might always have it, you can do things to reduce the impact of the symptoms and make life at least a little easier for you. If you can stop a chronic condition from ruining your life, then it’s got to be with trying. With that in mind, keep reading to find out more about what you might be able to do. 

Understand Your Condition 

The first thing you’ll need to do if you want to stop a chronic condition from ruining your life is to understand it – thoroughly. We don’t mean just a vague idea of what you’re suffering from – we mean that you need to really know it, inside and out. You need to educate yourself about everything you can that links to your illness, including its symptoms, triggers, and treatments. 

Of course, to do this, you’ll need to only look at the most reliable sources when it comes to eczema treatments or anything else you need to know about, but that’s a good thing. True, it’s going to mean it takes longer to get the information you need, but it also means that you’ll be being as thorough as possible so you weed out any sources and information that aren’t reliable. In the end, you’ll have a good idea of what’s true and what isn’t, and that’s going to serve you well when it comes to stopping the condition from ruining your life. 

It’s also a good idea to find support groups so you can talk to others about the condition you all share because even if you don’t get any more information, the support can make a lot of difference, and knowing there are people you can talk to if you’re having a bad day or who you can help if you’re able to is a wonderfully positive and empowering things. Plus, don’t forget doctors and other medical experts. You might think you want to do it all by yourself, but the fact is that doctors are going to have a lot of good information for you, and they’ll be able to point you in the right direction when it comes to learning more. Plus, seeing a doctor means you won’t ever have to (or be tempted to) self-medicate, and staying away from that dangerous path is a good thing.

Accept It

If this sounds like a terrible idea, don’t worry – it’s not as bad as you might think, and it’s well worth thinking about once you know more about what we’re saying. The crucial thing to remember is that acceptance doesn’t mean resigning yourself to the fact that you’re going to be unwell and potentially limited forever. It doesn’t mean giving up on trying to reduce the symptoms or finding a cure. What it means is that rather than fighting against it, you accept that this condition, whatever it is, is part of your life – but it’s not the thing that makes you you, and it’s not the thing that defines you.  

So what we’re saying is that you need to accept that you’re unwell, but you mustn’t become a victim – you need to essentially shift your thinking from negative to as positive as you can (which might not be easy, but when you start, it becomes easier). Begin by not dwelling on the things you can’t do and instead focus on what you can do and what you can control in your life, make sure you do more of the things that bring you joy, and it’s definitely going to help because even if you’re still suffering, you’re not letting the problem ruin your life. 

Prioritize Self-Care

Maybe you don’t put your own self-care first because you don’t want to look weak and admit you need some time to read or recharge. Maybe you don’t do it because you’ve got a lot of other people to look after. Maybe you’re too busy at work. Maybe you really just don’t know what you can do that means you’re enjoying some self-care. Whichever of these issues it is, or even if it’s some other reason entirely, it’s time to change your thinking – self-care has to come first.

The fact is that when you’re managing a chronic condition, self-care is non-negotiable, so you need to add more to your life whenever you can. The great thing about self-care is that there are so many different ways it can be done, so you might start by ensuring you get enough sleep, that you exercise regularly (even a little is good), or that you eat a balanced diet. Perhaps self-care for you means getting a chance to read or listen to music. Maybe it’s about going for a walk or enjoying your favorite hobby or having a spa day. It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as you include it in your life because when you do, you’ll be happier and less stressed, and that’s going to help you realize that your life is good and that your chronic condition, even at it’s most difficult, isn’t going to ruin it.

Set Realistic Goals

Something else that can help you if you’re suffering from a chronic condition and you don’t want it to ruin your life is to set yourself some realistic goals to work towards. They can be as big or as small as you want (although if they are big, it’s best to split them into smaller goals so you don’t get overwhelmed by everything you have to do).

Once you reach a goal, celebrate, and keep moving forward – always move forward. You’ll need to be flexible and sometimes those goals will have to change and be adjusted, but as long as you’re always working towards something, you’ll have hope, and that means your life is definitely not ruined.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Here are a few products I’m loving with right now. I hope you find a product to add to your household or self-care routine. The list may also give you ideas for a surprise for friends, and family. Most products are found on Amazon.

THIS WORKS

Deep Sleep Pillow Spray: Fast-Acting Natural Rest Aid with Lavender for Relaxation, 35 ml 1.2 Fl Oz

Not only do I use this at night but also at nap time! It’s worth the investment and by only using a few spays at a time, it lasts a long time. Don’t forget to share with your bedmate.  

The Body Shop Shea Body Butter 

Hydrating & Moisturizing Skincare for Very Dry Skin – Vegan – 12.9 oz

This is my favorite body cream, it’s from a company built on ethics, and it’s a great price point. There are many fragrances to choose from and everything else you need to pamper. 

NEOM 

Happiness Reed Diffuser Refill, 3.38 fl oz |Uplifting Scent Neroli, Mimosa & Lemon Essential Oil Blends| 100% Natural Fragrance | Scent to Make You Happy……

This fragrance is out of this world and a bit on the pricey side. Treat yourself to a new fragrance. On the less expensive side, I buy the below. 

Cocorrína

Cashmere Vanilla Scented Reed Diffuser Oil with 8 Cotton Reed Sticks Fragrance for Bedroom, Bathroom, Home Décor, 6.7 oz. (200 ml)

They have many fragrances to choose from but this is my favorite from this company. 

Gaiam Relax Massage Ball Roller 

Handheld Wooden Total Body Massager for Back, Neck, Foot, Calf, Leg, Arm | Deep Tissue Massager Relief for Sore Muscles

Who doesn’t love a smooth massage without leaving home? High-quality brand and with little maintenance it will last a long time.

KIPRITII

Ergonomically Back Scrubber for Shower – Double-Sided Back Brush Long Handle for Shower, Wet & Dry Brush for Cellulite and Lymphatic (Blue)

I love this brush because it has a stiff and soft side. The ergo styling does make a difference in my wrist pain. It fit my needs and it was less than $10.

Organic Lavender Essential Oil Roll-On

Lavandula Angustifolia, 100% Pure USDA Certified Aromatherapy for Calming, Relaxation & Skin – 10 ml Roller by Silk Road Organic – Always Pure, Always Organic

It is great to keep these around the house and office for when you need to reduce stress. They help me fall asleep by rolling a line down both sides of my neck and a dab under my nose. Essential oils also help if you roll on the lower parts of your body, the smell will go right up to you. 

Diffuserlove Ceramic Diffuser

160ML Essential Oil Diffusers Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser for Room Air Diffuser for Home Bedroom Stone Diffuser White (Size:6.8″ H x 3.6″ W)

You don’t have to spend a fortune on a nice Essential Oil Diffuser, of course, there are more elaborate ones on the market. My life is about simplicity and this one has served me well for over 5 years. 

Woolzies Sweet Dreams Essential Oil Blend

Helps Sleep Better Faster Restful | Undiluted Therapeutic Grade (Sweet Dreams, 4 Oz)

I have not found a better essential oil mix to add to my Diffuser. It’s a great fragrance anywhere you have a Diffuser but this blend sets me up for a good night. 

Melinda

Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight Kelly’s Quest.    

Kelly’s Quest

This is the story of my quest for spirituality.

I read some of her posts last week and her site is a slice of heaven! Please stop by and say hello.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

In this fast-paced social media world, it can be difficult to find the time to look within or back in time. I hope you find these quotes and questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!

I was not born into money and any money had to be made by me. Sometimes, I would think “If I had money, this would all go away.” The great thing is this encouraged me to jump out there and set the world on fire.

My first job was a paper route at 10 years old, just several blocks around my house, producing money that made me feel more in control and it felt great.

I worked my way into sales which is a natural fit for me, and I worked hard but always had my eye on the goal, more money. I joined a 2B company as a National Trainer with 15-20 offices. I had arrived at the top! Not really. I traveled 5-6 days a week, ran errands the entire weekend, and spent no time with my ex-husband. This job was the beginning of the breakdown in our marriage.

During those few years, my salary was between $250K-$350K, plus adding bonuses like money and exotic trips, I was riding high. I spent money like crazy, and never thought about my long-term future.

A few years later, I won a lawsuit and became a multi-millionaire. It was short-lived after paying the taxes and the lawyer and the settlement isn’t so large. Shortly after the settlement, I had Brain Surgery and took some time off to recover by remodeling and upgrading our house. While our marriage fell apart and we divorced.

I never asked myself if I was happy, fulfilled, and living a good life. I wasn’t and set out to make major changes. First I started focusing on the future while maintaining a fun life. After the divorce, I no longer had big money. It was a time for discovery.

I matured from the divorce and started writing down what made me happy or what I thought would. I started by giving a bit to charity and other ways to find joy and spent some time thinking about the type of man that I wanted in my life if the chance came again. I was open but already 38 years old.

Learning how to get in touch with myself happened after I married my husband. I have learned what “in sickness and in health means.”  He’s had my back, loved me when I was in very dark places and mean, and has shown that love for over 23 years.

Our focus changed to what we want in our future and retirement, what number would give us a comfortable retirement. To do that you have to make sacrifices which in the beginning was hard for me but now, I would not go back to my high-rolling days.

Money didn’t give me joy, it flamed my ego which affected my marriage.

Money didn’t keep my Bipolar Disorder under control, I did.

Money didn’t keep my Grandparents from dying.

Money will not protect you from harm, death, illness, or stress.

I love our comfortable life watching TV together every night, and catching up on the day while sharing a meal. My husband washes his own clothes which makes it easier on me, takes care of the dogs, and cooks most of the time and in Summer he’s great about watering my plants.

What my journey taught me is money is great but it’s icing not the foundation of a great life.

Melinda

It is a big responsibility to help someone with a chronic illness. Depending on the severity of the situation, there will be many changes to your life and theirs. This is true for a professional caregiver, family member, or good friend. There are also some common mistakes that people make when trying to help. Don’t worry; most of us are in an impossible situation when caring for someone. From being aware of what to say to looking after yourself, here are some care tips.

Be Prepared to Act Fast

Many chronic illnesses can take a turn in an instant. Epileptic seizures, diabetic comas, and falling over because of a back injury are some examples. Knowing what to do as fast as possible can mean the difference between helping someone or serious consequences. A CPR and first aid certification may not sound like much, but it will be helpful in the case that something bad happens. It’s all about a fast response. Speed and skill do save lives!

Be Aware of What You Say

Even with the best intentions, we can say things we really shouldn’t. You may even make ableist remarks without realizing it, which could upset or offend the patient. This would be classed as discrimination in a court. So be careful what you see. Here are some common examples:

• “You are too young to have a condition like that.”
• “You can just push through it if you try.”
• “Maybe you would be better if you exercised or ate well.”
• “Everyone has aches and pains sometimes.”

It is best to keep your opinions to yourself when caring for someone with a chronic illness. Even with the best intentions, you may say something that can be taken the wrong way. It can also be more challenging to care for someone when there is some kind of tension between you.

Help Someone with a Chronic Illness with Privacy

As a caregiver, you are not bound by the same confidentiality rules as a doctor. However, that doesn’t mean the entire world needs to know about the issues a patient has. It is hard enough for most people with chronic conditions. One survey found that 56% of people with epilepsy feel it is a stigma. And 35% have faced direct discrimination. The private conditions of patients should remain just that. If they want to tell people, then it is up to them and not caregivers.

Be Present So You Can Engage Better

Engagement is a key factor when it comes to caring for most patients. Because of the debilitating symptoms of chronic illnesses, it is even more vital for chronic patients. Many chronic illnesses come with stigmas and some cannot live a normal life. This causes issues like depression. Yet, often, all it takes is for someone to be a good friend and just listen to what a patient has to say. Communication can also help you become a better caregiver to the patient.

Use Touch as Encouragement

We live in a world where we have almost been conditioned not to touch people. There are very good reasons for this. But as a caregiver, the art of touch can be a skilled way to reassure and encourage someone. Appropriate touching includes a gentle tap on the elbow with some kind words. Holding a patient’s hand through pain provides reassurance. And even a gentle hug can make someone’s day. These cause genuine hormonal changes that make someone feel better.

Discuss Specific Needs with the Patient

No two chronic illness cases are the same, even for patients with the same condition. This is because everyone is different. All situations are different; medication requirements will be different, and living arrangements will be different. It always helps to discuss specific needs with the patient, their family, and other caregivers if the patient cannot speak for themselves. This also includes any boundaries that must be respected between the patient and the caregiver.

Help Someone with a Chronic Illness with Self-Management

Taking on the role of a caregiver is not an easy task. It requires dedication to the life of another, as well as your own. Therefore, self-management is vital for getting the job done well.

Learn as much as you can about the illness

It is challenging to help someone with a condition you don’t understand or know nothing about. You don’t need to become a doctor. But learning about a specific chronic illness means you know what to expect, understand what can happen, and how to assist when a situation arises. 

Understand the medications you may have to handle

Most chronic illnesses require a lot of medication. Pain medication, heart stabilizers, and anticonvulsants are common. Misuse of medication is dangerous and will cause severe problems to a patient’s health. It is vital you organize medication and follow the script.

Take care of yourself to take care of others

It’s an old saying, but you can’t take care of someone else without first taking care of yourself. Poor self-care poses a threat to a patient. Focus, attention, and mood will be affected by a poor diet, for example. Ensure you turn up in as good a state as you can to be a good caregiver.

You can also offer support to patients by teaching self-care with a chronic illness. They cannot rely on someone else 100%.So helping them learn about their own illness and the medication they need will help them become a little more independent for the times they are alone.

Acknowledge Your Emotions

Becoming a caregiver means giving up some parts of your life. A patient with a debilitating chronic illness may depend on you for many things. In some cases, it can be like having two lives with double the work. Therefore, it helps to address your own personal feelings about the situation. If you are not invested emotionally, it can be hard to do the job correctly. Taking on too much is a common mistake. Get help from another caregiver if you can’t emotionally cope.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions 

We tend to stay quiet most of the time as no one likes being questioned too much. However, questions are vital when caring for someone with a chronic illness. Otherwise, how else do you know what to do in a given situation? The questions don’t need to be complex. A simple “What do you need right now?” is more than enough to meet the needs of a patient. The trick is to limit the intrusion and use your better judgment as to when to ask the patient a pertinent question.

Carefully Listen to Healthcare Professionals

As a caregiver, you can learn a lot about an illness. And this is an excellent thing to do. It will help you become a better carer for a patient. However, you must remember that you are not a medical expert! Some healthcare professionals don’t communicate well, and this can be stressful. However, learning to work with them is the best thing for the patient. If you feel that there is a lack of expert care or a course of action that is harming a patient, you can report this.

Help Someone with a Chronic Illness with Self-Care

Your own self-care is essential as a caregiver. But what about the patient? Yes, helping a patient with self-care is a necessary part of the job. Some chronic illness patients also experience mental health issues, around 37% in fact. This can affect how well they look after themselves on a day-to-day basis. Helping with personal hygiene, getting some outdoor time, and meal preparation will help form an enhanced self-care plan and gain a little more independence.

Try Not to Offer Advice

Offering medical advice should only be limited to medical health professionals. But even general advice won’t help the situation. Offering advice, even if it is well intended, can make a patient feel worse. So, you must be careful about what you say to a patient. Here are some ideas:

• People with chronic illnesses may need to vent their concerns, so just listen.
• Unsolicited advice can be taken as criticism and make someone feel guilty.
• Be a good friend and listen to what a person with an illness has to say.
• Engage with a patient from their perspective and not your own.

It can be hard not to offer advice, as it is a very human thing to do. However, most patients just want to talk and have someone listen. You will be a better friend and caregiver by doing just that. A patient will appreciate you engaging on their level and listening to what they have to say.

Look for Signs of a Worsening Condition

There are various symptoms that come with chronic illnesses. And they are pretty easy to spot when you understand what they are. However, there are some hidden symptoms that can be more challenging and indicate a patient’s issues are getting worse. Observation, conversation, and asking questions will help. Some of the common signs that a chronic illness is getting worse include stress and anxiety, not getting good sleep, and loss of focus and concentration.

Summary

You need to be prepared to act fast with CPR or first aid when assigned to help someone with a chronic illness. It also helps to learn about the condition, understand medication, and take care of yourself. These help spot the symptoms that a chronic condition might be getting worse.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

In this fast-paced social media world, it can be difficult to find the time to look within or back in time. I hope you find these quotes and questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!

Continue reading “Deep Thoughts” →

Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight the blog Willowdot21.    

willowdot21

An insight to a heart mind and soul.

This is my chance to display my poetry and pros . In a way it is mainly for my own expression of the pent up feelings and stress that usually pins me into a corner on a daily basis! My profile tells you all you need to know about me , my poems and stories, I think tell you even more. I hope you can enjoy my work, feel free to drop in at any time you are always welcome.

We have followed each other for a long time and enjoyed her posts and conversations so much that it was time to tell you. about her post. 

She participates in several challenges each week which are fun to read. Get on over there! 

Melinda

Looking for the Light