No one wants to be told they have a new health condition, because that kind of information is rarely positive. It’s unlikely we’re told that a new health condition is present, but don’t worry, this will grant us further capability. However, a health condition is not necessarily a terrible event that will upend your entire life. Moreover, even those who experience unfortunate diagnoses can still live a great quality of life, and use this challenge to show the best possible side of themselves.
That’s why it’s important to avoid catastrophizing if you’re given a new diagnosis. While it’s true that emotionally processing this new event is necessary (and you get to do this how you choose, not how we tell you), moving through that understandable worry can help you look at life with more appreciation, and manage your well-being with more clarity.
While we wouldn’t date to tell you how to think or feel, we hope that some of the following gentle recommendations could assist you if you need them:
Understand The Full Diagnosis
Don’t make massive assumptions before getting all the facts. For example, no one wants a cancer diagnosis, but the actual variance of cancers you could have and the treatment options available are quite significant. For example, some are highly survivable. A diagnosis alone is just one piece of the puzzle and the start of a conversation. Ask as many questions as needed until you truly grasp what this condition means – the symptoms, treatment paths, long-term outlook, and so on. Having comprehensive information can shed light on the unknown and calm fears, and it will also understand who will be treating you, such as the focus areas for specialized audiologists you’ll meet.
Invest In A Reliable Support System
Living with a health issue is easier when you have a solid support network. It’s always wise to surround yourself with sources you can lean on – your medical team, trustworthy online resources (make sure to only use verified sources), and local support groups. Having loved ones who listen, encourage, and understand can make a world of difference or a meeting group you connect with each month. Knowing you’re not alone can help you feel much stronger and more proactive than you may have otherwise been.
Express Difficult Emotions Healthily
It’s important to admit that a new diagnosis often comes with hard emotions like fear, anger, and sadness. That’s okay – those feelings are valid. But don’t bottle them up. Find healthy outlets that work for you, whether it’s one-on-one counseling, journaling, or venting to close friends. Getting those heavy emotions off your chest can prevent them from becoming overwhelming. It will also help you avoid coping with harmful habits like intense spending or unhealthy escapism.
With this advice, we hope you can avoid catastrophizing despite a diagnosis.
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