Receiving a diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience. Depending on your personal experience, finding out your diagnosis can range from devastating to validating.
Whilst a diagnosis can often provide answers to longstanding questions, it can also open the door to more uncertainty.
Taking the time to process your diagnosis and considering how it will impact your life is vital.
Understanding all the facts
In the initial appointment, it may be difficult to fully process your diagnosis. You may be given information that you forget or think of questions after the appointment.
Follow-up appointments with your healthcare providers offer the perfect opportunity to ask the questions that you need to. This can involve information about your health condition and what it means for you, as well as any treatment options that are available to you.
It’s best to write down questions when you think of them so that you can take your list to your appointments. You can also take a trusted friend or family member with you if you feel uncomfortable.
Work through your feelings
Receiving a diagnosis is an extremely emotional time. You may be feeling a whole range of emotions, from denial and anger to anxiety and fear.
The last thing you should do is bottle your feelings up. It is important for you to express your feelings in whatever way you need to, so you can better process what is happening.
If you are struggling to talk to friends and family, you can try writing down your thoughts and worries in a journal.
You can also seek the advice and guidance of a professional therapist. Finding a therapist who specialises in your specific condition can be particularly helpful. They will be able to help you to identify coping strategies that will work best for you.
Building your support system
Whatever prognosis comes with your diagnosis, it is important to have a support system in place.
Friends and family can be an amazing base for your support system. Depending on your relationships and their availabilities, family and friends may be able to provide transport and help with household chores such as cooking and cleaning.
It is also a good idea to seek out support groups or networks of people who have the same diagnosis as you. Looking online or contacting your healthcare provider can be a good way to access these groups.
Talking to others who have the same diagnosis can offer a sense of community. It will also be beneficial to hear the experiences of others, to provide comfort and familiarity.
Seeking the right support
As part of your support system, it may be beneficial for you to seek out professional support. You may require more practical support such as nurses and carers who can help with day-to-day tasks.
At Synergy Complex Care, our Healthcare Support Workers and Nurses can provide specialist at-home care for those with complex needs.
We can work alongside you, your loved ones, and your healthcare professionals to create a bespoke care plan that allows you to choose how to live your life and enhances your quality of life.
If you would like to find out more about the care and support we offer, please get in touch with our team.