CBT for long term health conditions
Receiving a diagnosis of a health condition such as cancer, heart disease or diabetes is very distressing and living with a long-term illness can put a strain on the sufferers physical and mental well-being.
It is quite common for people who have a long-term health problem to have feelings of anxiety, stress, anger or depression. The impact of the condition can cause problems in relationships as the person and their families struggle to come to terms with the implications that a physical health condition brings.
People with serious or long-term health issues who take steps to improve their emotional health can often see positive changes in their physical well-being as well.
Many our clients have tried to deal with their conditions without help and this can have a negative impact on their mental health. Seeking help is not easy, but with the correct guidance and support, there are techniques which can help to improve emotional well-being for people with complex physical health conditions.
Managing physical health conditions with CBT
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach that can help people who have physical health conditions to better manage their emotional health. It’s natural to have concerns about the future, or feel anger at the situation, or experience anxiety or guilt about the issue.
CBT cannot change the diagnosis of a physical condition, but instead focuses on identifying and challenging the negative and unhelpful thoughts that cause emotional distress for the person. Once the problematic thought patterns are identified, the client and therapist can discuss techniques to manage negative thoughts in a more adaptive and realistic way.
By integrating help from their CBT professional, clients can learn to cope with a life-changing diagnosis, explore the thought process and challenges they face and take the guilt and anxiety away from their illness.
Speak to our experienced therapists
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Interventions have successfully helped hundreds of clients understand the emotional intricacies of their long-term medical conditions. The cognitive approach can greatly improve a person’s outlook on life and give them the confidence to deal with their illness and allow them to lead a life away from their anxiety and negative thoughts.
