By Sharon Krispinsky, RN, BSN, CDCES, Chronic Health Program Coordinator for Lee Health
Have you been diagnosed with a chronic health condition such as diabetes? Besides the medical concerns, you may be surprised at the wide range of emotions you feel: Anger, fear, sadness – they can all be overwhelming to someone faced with a health challenge.
Why do chronic health conditions ignite difficult emotions?
Uncertainty about the future and loss of control are also two common themes shared by people facing a chronic illness. Many times, patients worry that their condition will keep them from normal activities such as working, socializing with friends and family, and overall quality of life.
Others may believe they can’t be spontaneous any more. After all, they might have to start taking medications at a regular time or frequently see healthcare providers. They may even need to spend time asking others for help.
How do you overcome these difficult emotions and take control?
It’s time to get empowered and face your condition head-on. The good news? You can easily learn the knowledge and skills to manage your condition yourself!
When diagnosed with a chronic condition, you will likely be overwhelmed with information and possible treatment approaches. So the first thing you need to do is develop an action plan. This allows you to identify a short-term goal – one you can easily reach during the coming week. If you can tackle and enhance just one aspect of life and health, you can then easily tackle and enhance a second one.
Some of the things you can think about right away are healthier eating, physical activity, managing stress, and taking medications.
I want to be an active manager of my health! So where do I start?
Lee Health Solutions has a variety of programs and clinical experts ready to help you to take control to become healthier. Our professionals take the time to listen, get to know you, and put an action plan in place that works for your specific habits and lifestyle!
This education and guidance is data-driven and medically proven to help, so call us today at 239-424- 3120. A program navigator will be glad to help you find the right program. Some of these programs include:
- Comprehensive Diabetes Classes
- Individual Diabetes Consults
- Diabetes Prevention Program for individuals with Prediabetes
- Gestational Diabetes Classes
- Weight Management Program
- Disease Specific Nutrition Consults
- Chronic Disease Self-Management Education Program (complimentary)
- Chronic Pain Self-Management Education Program (complimentary)
- Positive (HIV) Self-Management Education Program (complimentary)
Safety is always our top priority – especially during COVID-19. So besides meeting in person, we also provide virtual classes and guidance. We’re here for you, and we would be honored to help you on your healthcare journey!