Finding Meaning:
The Life of a Disease Survivor

The diagnosis of a terminal or life-changing medical condition can unleash a whole range of emotions. Thoughts of the grimmest possibilities will cross your mind, and each negative thought will toss you into waves of unthinkable fear, guilt, hopelessness, anger, etc. It will shatter your dreams, aspirations and self-esteem.

Yet, the ordeal need not stop you from having the wonderful life of a survivor. If surviving is a goal (and it should be), think of what it takes to be one. Thinking pessimistically will not help. While the disorder or disease may change your life, you can still carve a meaningful life despite the changes. Because this will be one difficult phase in your life, consider sustaining your strength and willpower with professional assistance.

The Power of the Good Emotional Health

If you have a resilient spirit, you must have a good emotional health and a nurturing environment. These are all important because a strong mind can help you battle the condition better. Pessimism, on the other hand, can make your body weaker and unable to fend the debilitating symptoms of a dreadful condition. The mind is very strong. Negative thoughts can make you defeated even before a battle is fought, in the same way that a strong mind gives you a good fighting chance to be a survivor.

Finding Sense in the Experience and Building Resilience

It is true, being courageous in the face of a debilitating disease is easier said than done, but it can be done. Finding meaning in the “nightmare” can help. One too many survivors claim to have found the strength by finding sense in their ordeal. And because the journey down the road of sickness will not be an easy one, find support. While you need a supportive environment, it is most important to be with positive people during this stage. Aside from family and friends, counselors can help you take stock of your life situation in a positive light and help you resolve issues that block those possibilities.

Cultivating Positivity

Finding the meaning in your experience can be achieved when you explore and commit to live your personal values. Often, it takes a professional to assist you to recount the events of your life to be able to draw the positive aspects, despite the challenges. Cultivating positivity is best achieved with professional help.

When you are handed down a medical diagnosis that will threaten your life or future, you need to resolve those things that are weighing you down and adjust to how you are going to live your life from this point on. Call Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC. One of the licensed independently contracted counselors can help. You can take charge of your thoughts as well as your emotions. Living a happy, fulfilling life is still possible and the best way to fight a seemingly ‘senseless” challenge.

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