Dealing with the emotions of illness can be very draining,
both physically and psychologically. The thoughts a person
experiences when he or she is told that some part of his or
her body is ill can be one of many including disappointment,
guilt, anger, denial, and fear. These thoughts will affect
the way a person feels which can determine how the person
behaves.
However, a persons thoughts dont always have to be
negative at this time when there may be several life style
changes. Everyone is capable of turning negative thinking
into positive thoughts if they are willing to learn some
coping skills. Some of these skills are:
Become Educated Learn about your illness from reliable
resources. Continue to ask questions until you understand
the answers.
Talk to People Share your thoughts and ask for help.
Allow your family, friends, and professionals support you
during this time of changes.
Talk to Yourself Be Positive and remember You Have Done
Nothing Wrong!
Be Your Own Friend Trust Your Educated Decisions
Make yourself a Feelings Card to remind you how to turn
those negative thoughts into positive ones. Use a 3x5 card
and write on it:
I feel ____________ (emotion) because I think_______________
(thoughts). I will let go of this thought by
________________ (behavior).
Developing positive thoughts has many advantages and will
enable you to feel healthy emotions. Some examples are:
Regaining Control you will feel in control of your
illness because you have made your own choices
Peace Accepting your illness by knowing how you can help
yourself
Building Strength You CAN take care of yourself and will
get stronger and stronger
Sense of Accomplishment You have taken steps to take
care of yourself with an illness. You have successfully made
positive changes in your life.
Remember, you can have a healthy life when you clearly
understand your illness and take responsibility for your
health. Keep a positive outlook and be assertive with your
wellness plan. Look into the future. You can have control of
your well being by allowing yourself to see the positive
aspects of life instead of the negatives. Its your choice
on how you want to cope with your illness.
