"Chronic illness is often unpredictable. You may experience consistent symptoms, yet they often fluctuate in intensity, making it hard to predict exactly how you will feel from one day to the next. A friend may ask you to go out to dinner one week from now, and you think, "How the heck can I make plans for a week from now? I have no idea how I will feel.""
"Chronic illness also brings change (that is typically unwanted), loss of control, and concern about the future. You may feel crappy now and are worried about feeling even crappier down the road. It is more difficult to engage in daily tasks, your relationships may be strained, you may have to make adjustments to or give up enjoyable activities, and you may spend less time with friends. All of these factors can lead to a sense of helplessness in the face of loss and uncertainty."
Chronic illness is unpredictable and symptoms often fluctuate, making future planning difficult. Chronic conditions bring unwanted change, loss of control, strained relationships, reduced activities, and less social time, which can create helplessness. Fear of the unknown commonly triggers the brain to assume worst-case scenarios as a protective response. Intolerance of uncertainty is linked to greater distress, so practicing tolerance can lessen suffering. Practical strategies include acknowledging uncertainty, setting realistic expectations, planning around controllable aspects, using problem-solving, and cultivating self-compassion. Regular practice of these strategies can improve coping and emotional well-being despite ongoing unpredictability.
Read at Psychology Today
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