The losses and lifestyle changes that are associated with chronic illness can take a toll. These may include the loss of a job or friends, or giving up some dreams, goals or valued activities. Finding ways to cope with the physical and emotional challenges is key to living successfully with a chronic health problem. Studies have shown that what a person does about something is largely determined by how they think about it. In other words, what they believe.
Beliefs can greatly determine what happens to a person and how they handle their health problems.
Some of the most successful self-managers are people who think of their chronic condition as a path or journey. Sometimes the path is flat and smooth. Other times the path is rough with many obstacles to negotiate. Developing these skills, like developing any skill, requires practice, advice and support. That's where a self help course can help.