5 Ways to Navigate Poor Health: Patient Edition
Are you going through poor health at the moment? Here are some of my thoughts on how to navigate it.
I’ve given some thoughts about the “hows” and “how nots” of supporting a loved one dealing with poor health. I thought today I’d extend those thoughts to those who are navigating poor health themselves. Here are some thoughts I have for those of you that are here:
Manage expectations of your health and your support
Communicate clearly with your healthcare providers about your illness, asking questions to clarify any uncertainties. The more you can learn about your illness and its potential impact on your life, the more you’ll be able to set realistic expectations for your recovery and daily life.
Recognize that people offer support in different ways and some may be more available than others. This is ok. Appreciate the support you receive without holding unrealistic expectations of the people in your life.
Be prepared for the fluctuating symptoms and outcomes of treatments and recovery. Try to mentally prepare for good days and challenging ones, understanding that setbacks are part of the journey. Healing is not linear!
Listen to your body and don’t be afraid to say NO
Prioritize your rest and recovery as much as possible. If you’re feeling exhausted, allow yourself to rest without guilt. Your body knows what it needs to heal, listen to it!
If you feel an activity or a request might drain your energy or exacerbate your condition, don’t hesitate to decline and say no. It’s important to protect your health, you are the only one who can do so.
Pay attention to your body as it is healing - looking out for new or worsening symptoms and seeking medical attention when you need to do so.
Ask for help if you need it
A closed mouth never gets fed! If you need help with daily tasks or just emotional support from a loved one, do your best to reach out and ask for their time or assistance. You won’t know if they’re available unless you ask.
When asking for help, be clear about what you need. People are often willing to help but may not know how to do so effectively.
Surround yourself with who and what gives you strength
Build a supportive network with people who uplift and encourage you. Surrounding yourself with those who bring positivity and understanding to your situation can lessen the stress of whatever poor health you are navigating.
Try to spend time doing things that bring you joy and relaxation.
Create a healing environment with maximum comfort and minimum stress, or as best as possible. This could be decluttering your space, adding some plants (with minimal upkeep), or decorating with things that make you feel good. Even if it’s just a corner of your room, create a calm space and enjoy it.
Believe in your capacity to keep calm and carry on
You are your strongest ally - try your best to cultivate a positive mindset by focusing on the aspects of your life and health that you can control. Positive thinking can have such a significant impact on your overall wellbeing.
Be kind to yourself as you are navigating your poor health. By acknowledging your efforts and resilience you are supporting yourself in the best way you can.
Recognize and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Each step forward is a testament to your strength and perseverance.
And one extra…laugh!
Talk to a friend who always makes you laugh, watch something funny on TV, read a comic book, whatever it takes.
I’ve mentioned my love for Calvin and Hobbes, and I recently broke out my favorite childhood book of poems by Shell Silverstein, A Light in the Attic. Whatever you can do to lift your spirits, do it. It may take some extra effort, but it’s well worth it.
As always, thanks for being here!
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Take care & continue creating,
