chronic pain + illness
Therapy for Chronic Pain + Illness
in NYC
A chronic illness doesn’t have to be an everyday burden.
You’re not alone
What Is a Chronic Illness?
We Specialize in Therapy for Chronic Pain and Illness in NYC
Chronic illness is a broad term used to describe conditions that last more than a year. In most cases, they require ongoing medication to ease symptoms. These symptoms can appear out of nowhere or linger constantly. Because of this, some chronic illnesses hamper daily living. Regular activities are extremely hard to do, severely damaging the confidence and overall mental health of those who have it.
Today, the most recognized chronic illnesses are diabetes, cancer, and heart diseases – and information campaigns to help prevent them are widespread. However, this has skewed public perception and limited the idea of “chronic illnesses” to the aforementioned diseases.
Any kind of health problem that lasts for long periods can be classified as a chronic illness such as mild skin diseases, asthma, and dementia can fall under this category.
At Clarity Therapy NYC, we want you to understand that you don’t need to have a famously “bad” chronic illness to feel the effects of having one. As long as the ailment is affecting your life, then you’re wise to consider psychotherapy as part of your treatment and healing journey.
Having to endure repeated bouts of symptoms from a chronic illness can have a detrimental effect on anyone’s mental health. That’s why it’s essential to take care of yourself and your emotional wellbeing.
What Does a Chronic Illness Feel Like?
Common Emotional and Physical Symptoms of Chronic Pain + Illness
It goes without saying that chronic illnesses will feel differently based on an individual’s specific issues, but the effects on mental health are more or less similar for everyone. It can rob you of much of the enthusiasm and energy you may have since your days are focused on managing symptoms. In addition, you might feel constant anxiety over your health. In addition, you might feel constant anxiety or depressed mood regarding your health.
Adapting to the reality of having a chronic illness is not an easy task, and you might already be failing without even realizing it. Here are a few other things to watch out for in terms of your mental health. If you’re experiencing any of these, then it might be time to consult a mental health professional.
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Feeling increased stress and concern about the outcome of your health
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Lack of motivation to do your favorite hobbies and activities
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Decreased appetite
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Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships
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Experiencing symptoms of depression
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Limited to no physical activity
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Lack of sleep and constantly feeling tired
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No longer paying attention to some basic needs like proper hygiene and self-care
THERAPISTS WHO CAN HELP
Therapists Who Specialize in Therapy for Chronic Pain and Illness in NYC
Connecting with the right therapist is the most important factor in your search. We’re here to help you find a great match.
What Does Therapy for a Chronic Illness Look Like?
Mental health issues that arise as a result of chronic pain or illness can be improved with talk therapy. Today, there are many techniques and approaches used in the field that is also rapidly evolving thanks to research establishing the connection between mental health and chronic illnesses.
Our therapists can help you learn and apply coping skills for managing anxiety and living with a chronic illness. By implementing these strategies, you can improve your overall emotional wellbeing. Here are a few of the approaches we use:
Insight-oriented therapy is based on the belief that through increased consciousness we can create new life experiences. This therapeutic process involves the therapist and client exploring and gaining a better understanding of how feelings, beliefs, actions, and events from the past may be influencing our current mindset and circumstances. The goal of insight-oriented therapy is to empower you with a sense of clarity so that you have the freedom to make new, adaptive, and healthier choices that support your continuing growth.
This process is focused on addressing thought patterns, physical symptoms, and behaviors. Research shows that CBT is a very effective form of treating a variety of issues. Through compassionate and supportive care, we hope to create a safe space for you to feel comfortable in starting the process toward growth and reducing the feelings of depression and anxiety you may be feeling. CBT can be used alone or combined with mindfulness/meditation.
Through consistent practice, like meditation, we become more focused on the present and understand our experience in the here-and-now. Mindfulness teaches us to shift our attention away from negative thought patterns that lead to the unsatisfactory and problematic thoughts and behaviors and move toward positive and meaningful growth. Mindfulness can be used alone or combined with insight-oriented therapy and CBT.
Helpful Tips and Best Practices
Here are a few tips to help manage your mental health while coping with chronic pain or illness.
- Reduce exposure to sources of stress: When possible, avoid interactions that bring up negative emotions. Some examples may include scrolling through social media or stressful news, toxic relationships, or avoiding hectic or chaotic places.
- Connect with supportive family and friends: Isolating yourself can be detrimental to your mental health. Keep a strong support system around you and connect with others in ways that bring you joy.
- Create a healthy routine: Try to sleep at least eight hours a night, eat regular and balanced meals, and engage in regular joyful movement or exercise, if that feels right for you. Remember, it’s progress, not perfection. It may be difficult to do all of these simultaneously with a chronic illness, so be sure to give yourself grace when adopting new healthy habits.
- Consult with a therapist: Our psychotherapists at Clarity Therapy have experience working with people who live with chronic pain and illness live fulfilling and joyful lives. You don’t have to suffer alone, and we’re here to help you improve your quality of life.
get help for chronic pain + illness in NYC
We can help.
Our experienced therapists can help you improve your mental health while living with chronic pain or illness. We’ll work together to equip you with skills that help you adapt to your situation and live a fulfilling and vibrant life.