In certain cases, we may have very appropriate grief associated with illness and choose to receive professional counseling for a period of time. Journaling and writing are now often recommended in emotional support programs. Meditation and guided imagery engage the mind in efforts to center and balance our emotions. There is new research evaluating the physical benefits of ongoing emotional supports. The results of a classic study of breast cancer patients suggested that those involved in a support group reported a higher quality of life and lived longer.
Some research suggests that emotional support is linked to strengthening the immune system.
Although there is conflicting information about the physical benefits of emotional support, it is clear that optimism and quality of life are improved when we have the appropriate emotional support. In health, it is easy to take for granted the ability to engage in meaningful work and to participate in lifelong learning, whether it is done at home or managing a corporation. When living with a chronic illness, we may have to be creative to include meaningful learning and work. It is easy to see illness as limiting our ability to meet all the demands of our roles as family member, colleague, or friend. We may be asked to imagine new ways to learn and participate in activities that are important to us, for example, books on tape may be substituted for attending a lecture and the radio may keep us connected to the world's activities.