Coping and living with a chronic illness comes with many difficulties. It can take a toll in more ways than one. Normal life becomes less likely and more of an uphill battle to try to attain. Unlike an acute medical condition, which typically can be healed or is short-lived, a chronic illness requires some level of maintenance long-term and can come with ongoing symptoms.
Some Quick Facts
Per the most recent data collection, it is estimated that around 133 million Americans are living with at least one chronic illness. By 2030, it is anticipated that that number will grow to 171 million. The numbers can be quite alarming. Heart disease, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and long Covid are all rising. Those with chronic conditions also account for over 90 percent of prescription use. Chronic illnesses account for missed school and work days, drive up medical costs, and harm the overall economy.
The Financial Impact
The world is expensive. Healthcare is no exception to that. As time passes and technology advances, medical bills are on the rise. Living with one or more chronic illnesses means routine maintenance and possible flare-ups requiring medical visits or hospitalizations.
Dealing with medical costs can give a decent blow to your finances. Unless you are in the top 1% and have all the money you could ever need, money management and bills are taxing. Depending on how affected you are by your illness, money can be tight, and that can cause a high level of stress. Over time, as chronic illnesses require, financial planning can lead to depressive thoughts.
The Relationship Impact
Your chronic illness or side effects and symptoms may interfere with your self-esteem. You may experience physical changes to your body. Some body functions can be impacted and no longer function as desired.
Experiencing this change and uncertainty can cause a whirl of negative emotions, helplessness, distress, resentment, and anxiety. It can be difficult to form intimate relationships between the physical and the emotional pieces. Not having that opportunity can trigger further negative feelings and lead to depression.
The Work and Extracurricular Impact
You live in an unpredictable world now, making it hard to gauge your present and future. The job you do now might be manageable, but not in the future. The hobbies you enjoy may be fine presently but could be impacted down the road or during times of flare-ups.
Not being able to participate in activities that give you purpose and provide financial support (i.e., work) or give you happiness and reduce stress (i.e., hobbies) can become a harsh reality check. Missing out or not having that relief can lead to poor mental health. Over time, depression can ensue.
The Family Impact
Your family will likely stand by your side in a time of need. They may be there for you but unable to support you to the full extent of your needs. Unfortunately, with chronic illnesses, the time of need could be quite long and demanding. Your family members have their own lives as well. As time goes on, you may need more support than you can be given. Or you may not be able to participate in all the family functions as you would truthfully like. Family hits hard. Not being fully supported or involved can be the biggest blow. The link to depression in this regard is easy to imagine.
The Bottom Line
Chronic illness and depression have a very fine line between them. There are many balls in the air; if one falls, it can easily trigger depression. If you are living with a chronic condition, it is important to watch for signs of strained mental health. Don’t let it get too far before addressing it. There are methods to help, and we are always available to aid in this process! Please reach out for a free consultation today.
Learn more about depression therapy in Colorado. Serving Boulder, Longmont, Denver.
