Health problems and chronic illnesses

Health problems, either chronic or not, can be a big burden for an individual and one’s mental health. The chronicity of a disease may also carry other psychological and physical problems which may further restrain and burden the patient. Such problems can be anxiety, depression, phobias, death anxiety, impairment, substantial changes in one’s self- confidence and body image, the need for compliance with a demanding program of medical tests and medication, the decrease of one’s energy and effectiveness concerning his/her job or everyday tasks, the decrease of stamina or pleasure. The role of the psychologist in all these changes can be crucial and therapy can be quite relieving. So, individuals with chronic illnesses may regain a great deal of their functionality and may redefine their lives by making use of psychotherapy, either working individually or in groups.

map