Chronic illness can take many forms. Common types that I see in my practice include migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia, and chronic back pain, all of which are associated with depression.
No matter what type of chronic illness you have, you are likely all too aware of the profound effects it can have on your mental health and day-to-day functioning. Although chronic illness is a massive challenge to your psychological functioning, there are some ways that you can moderate its impact on your perspective and emotional wellbeing.
Many people search for “magic bullet” solutions to the depression that frequently accompanies chronic illness. Some of these solutions, like medication, therapy, and alternative holistic treatments, may work better than others. However, it is key to understand that depression related to physical health issues will likely be with you in one form or another for a long time.
While depression can remit at times, there is always the possibility that it will recur. If you can take a long-term perspective and understand that you will likely always be dealing with the ebb and flow of mental health concerns, then you will feel less hopeless when your depression or other mental health issues return.
When people have chronic illness, they are at risk of feeling like a misfit, struggling with everyday things that seem to cause other people no issues at all. For example, if you have to miss work frequently because of migraines, it is hard not to feel like a social outcast who doesn’t know the gossip and can’t even be counted on to attend the holiday party. Those with chronic illness can’t be blamed for thinking, “I shouldn’t even try to be social, since it rarely works out.”
This is a dangerous and slippery slope, though, and can result in increased feelings of loneliness and isolation. Try to attend events that you feel well enough to attend, and if you cancel plans with friends, be sure to reschedule. Additionally, finding an in-person support group or even one online can be essential in helping you feel less alone with your illness.
Comparing yourself unfavorably to others who can do “more” than you can is a surefire way to feel depressed and stuck. Instead, think about ways to be as compassionate with yourself as you would be with a close friend.
Focus on what you are accomplishing, even with your chronic illness, and how you are living a meaningful life despite the obstacles life has put in your way. Talk to yourself in the same kind and compassionate tone that you would use with a beloved family member, and steer clear of negative self-talk that can spiral into feelings of despair.
Even though plans may have to be altered because of the vicissitudes of chronic illness, you still need to have things to look forward to. You can even have backup plans scheduled in case you are unable to attend other events or gatherings.
For example, you can plan to visit a friend in a nearby city next month, but be sure to tell her that if you need to cancel, maybe you can find a weekend the following month instead. Maybe she can come to you if need be. Most people are much more accommodating and flexible than we imagine, and looking forward to events in your life can help buffer the depressive feelings that often go hand-in-hand with chronic illness.
Hopefully some of these techniques can help you fight back against the mental health effects of chronic illness. A therapist can also work with you to effectively integrate some of these strategies into your life.
Remember: chronic illness, although it can feel consuming, does not have to define your life or permanently impact your mental health.
Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health-wellness contributors; they are grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists of various specialties) to ensure content is accurate and on par with current industry standards.
Our goal at Talkspace is to provide the most up-to-date, valuable, and objective information on mental health-related topics in order to help readers make informed decisions.
Articles contain trusted third-party sources that are either directly linked to in the text or listed at the bottom to take readers directly to the source.
As you get older, health screenings and checkups become a more vital part of your overall well-being. Knowing which screenings to get after 50, and how often, will support early detection and effective treatment, while also helping you stay proactive about your health. To make being proactive even easier, weve created a handy preventive care guide filled with quick health tips and the information you need to stay on top of your health screenings. Click below to download your free health screening guide today -https://transformingage.org/mastering-your-health-after-50/- Call us today to learn more 720-505-5133.
As we grow older, many daily activities that were once simple can become more difficult, including preparing healthy meals. For seniors, proper nutrition is essential to maintain energy, supporting the immune system, managing chronic conditions, and staying independent. Thats why meal preparation isnt just a convenience, its a lifeline.Key Benefits of Meal Preparation for Seniors1. Ensures Balanced, Nutritious MealsHaving meals prepared in advance ensures that seniors are eating regularly and get the essential nutrients their bodies need. It prevents reliance on unhealthy processed foods or skipping meals altogether.2. Supports Chronic Condition ManagementMany seniors live with conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. Proper meal planning allows for dietary restrictions to be met, helping control symptoms and reduce complications.3. Reduces the Risk of MalnutritionMalnutrition is a silent threat among older adults, especially those living alone. Meal preparation helps safeguard against this by promoting consistent, nourishing eating habits.4. Promotes Independence and DignitySeniors who struggle with cooking may feel frustrated or dependent. Having meals planned and readywhether through caregiver support or meal delivery servicesallows them to eat well without feeling like a burden.5. Encourages Social EngagementWhen meal prep includes shared cooking or mealtimes, it creates opportunities for connection. Eating with a companion improves mood, reduces loneliness, and often encourages better eating habits.6. Saves Energy and Prevents AccidentsShopping, standing at the stove, lifting pots, or cutting ingredients can be physically taxing and even dangerous. Meal preparation helps minimize fatigue and reduces the risk of falls or burns in the kitchen. Meal Preparation OptionsThere are several ways to incorporate meal prep into a seniors routine: Family or caregiver assistance for shopping, cooking, and portioning meals Meal delivery services that offer senior-friendly, diet-conscious options Community programs such as Meals on Wheels Group cooking sessions at senior centers that combine nutrition with social interaction Freezer meal prepping once a week or month to ensure ready-made meals are always available Meal preparation is about more than just food, its about health, safety, and quality of life. For seniors, having access to nutritious, well-planned meals means more energy, better health, fewer hospital visits, and the ability to stay independent longer.
Online Mental Health TherapyMental health support from anywhere, available fast Talkspace provides mental health support privately and conveniently online. Receive live video therapy appointments from a highly qualified licensed therapist covered by your Medicare or Medicare Advantage plan with little wait. Individual therapy, psychiatry, or couples counseling covered by your private insurance plan is also readily available.Talkspace provides:A private space to discuss relationships, retirement, grief, health conditions, financial concerns, life changes, and anything thats on your mindLive one-on-one therapy sessions from your computer or phoneTreatment for over 150 mental health conditions including anxiety, stress, grief, depression, OCD, BPD, and moreMessaging therapy allows you to share with your therapist 24/7 and receive feedback and advice, and is proven to be as effective as traditional therapy..Connect with a therapist within daysTalkspace will match you with a therapist who is licensed in your state and should be a good fit for your needs. Start communicating with your therapist in 1-2 days.Receive care on your scheduleTalkspace removes all the scheduling hassles so you can get mental health support anytime, anywhere. Send your therapist text, voice, or video messages through the secure Talkspace platform and hear back daily, 5 days / weekStart your care journey with Talkspace today, visit www.talkspace.com
Online Mental Health TherapyMental health support from anywhere, available fast Talkspace provides mental health support privately and conveniently online. Receive live video therapy appointments from a highly qualified licensed therapist covered by your Medicare or Medicare Advantage plan with little wait. Individual therapy, psychiatry, or couples counseling covered by your private insurance plan is also readily available.Talkspace provides:A private space to discuss relationships, retirement, grief, health conditions, financial concerns, life changes, and anything thats on your mindLive one-on-one therapy sessions from your computer or phoneTreatment for over 150 mental health conditions including anxiety, stress, grief, depression, OCD, BPD, and moreMessaging therapy allows you to share with your therapist 24/7 and receive feedback and advice, and is proven to be as effective as traditional therapy..Connect with a therapist within daysTalkspace will match you with a therapist who is licensed in your state and should be a good fit for your needs. Start communicating with your therapist in 1-2 days.Receive care on your scheduleTalkspace removes all the scheduling hassles so you can get mental health support anytime, anywhere. Send your therapist text, voice, or video messages through the secure Talkspace platform and hear back daily, 5 days / weekStart your care journey with Talkspace today, visit www.talkspace.com
Online Mental Health TherapyMental health support from anywhere, available fast Talkspace provides mental health support privately and conveniently online. Receive live video therapy appointments from a highly qualified licensed therapist covered by your Medicare or Medicare Advantage plan with little wait. Individual therapy, psychiatry, or couples counseling covered by your private insurance plan is also readily available.Talkspace provides:A private space to discuss relationships, retirement, grief, health conditions, financial concerns, life changes, and anything thats on your mindLive one-on-one therapy sessions from your computer or phoneTreatment for over 150 mental health conditions including anxiety, stress, grief, depression, OCD, BPD, and moreMessaging therapy allows you to share with your therapist 24/7 and receive feedback and advice, and is proven to be as effective as traditional therapy..Connect with a therapist within daysTalkspace will match you with a therapist who is licensed in your state and should be a good fit for your needs. Start communicating with your therapist in 1-2 days.Receive care on your scheduleTalkspace removes all the scheduling hassles so you can get mental health support anytime, anywhere. Send your therapist text, voice, or video messages through the secure Talkspace platform and hear back daily, 5 days / weekStart your care journey with Talkspace today, visit www.talkspace.com