Battling a long-term illness can feel like a never-ending task. Rehabilitation needs not to be constant and with consideration for where you are at post-illness. Moving on physically can take a toll mentally, and moving forward can be the best option to change your life.
Change your mindset
Regardless of how long you were ill, changing your mindset from fighting the illness to one dedicated to focusing on your recovery is the best place to start. There is no denying that a long-term illness can be challenging, and it will undoubtedly have an impact on your mental and physical wellbeing. But failing to move on once you start your recovery process can hinder you going forward.
Stop thinking of yourself as a patient and learn to start living your life once more.
Support your body
Remember your body has been through a lot during your illness, and it will need time to recover. Allow your body this time while supporting it in different ways. Getting enough restful sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising in line with your recovery program can all help you. Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, and pay attention to nutrition to support your body’s healing process.
Consider the use of temporary or permanent mobility aids around your home, such as threshold ramps for accessibility, handrails, or support cushions. At the same time, you focus on recovery to help you gain your confidence.
Focus on mental health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and you are allowed to have feelings about what you have been through. Talking it through with therapists or your family can be a good release and help you express how you feel.
If you cannot process your illness and the changes to your life, you might find that your recovery stalls while you address how you feel and adjust to your new life.
Talk to your doctor if you feel you might be depressed or you are struggling with your recovery. They can help you to support your mental health, which in turn will support your physical recovery.
Be Realistic
Don’t force yourself to recover quickly, especially if you have had a prolonged illness and have been virtually bedbound. Your body will have been through a trauma, and you need to think about the strain this can have on you and the chances of relapse if you push yourself too hard.
Recovery is a journey, and it takes as long as your body needs to make the necessary improvements. Take it one day at a time. Allow yourself to rest and pay attention to any new pain or strain to avoid causing more damage. It might not take a week or even a few months, so be realistic about what your recovery entails and the appropriate time it can take you.
Take care of yourself and avoid forcing yourself to do too much too soon. Building your strength slowly and consistently is the best way forward after a long illness.
