Life with CF entails multiple daily rituals for treatments and a myriad of doctor visits in order to maintain physical health. But what about the other part of you – your mental health.
Three representatives from CFFC recently met with the Mental Health Counselors of Greater Rochester. The CFFC reps conveyed their personal stories to demonstrate the wide variety of issues those living with CF encounter beyond the boundaries of medical care. The counselors responded by describing the range of services they offer that would be appropriate for addressing those issues. While their web site is aimed primarily to practitioners, the FAQ and Need Help? tabs offer relevant information to individuals considering professional assistance.
Also, two of the best received breakout sessions at CF Education Day 2015 addressed coping with the stress and emotional responses to the challenges arising from life with CF. One sessi0n was geared toward those who have CF and the other was targeted to those who support someone with CF. Participants were assured that the pressures on mental health were a natural consequence of chronic illness and that no shame should be associated with seeking professional assistance.
Two conclusions can be drawn from these recent experiences: members of the CF community recognize the need for help in mental well being and mental health professionals are equipped to offer appropriate assistance to the CF community. CFFC is reviewing ways to incorporate these conclusions in our program offerings.
In the meantime, you may find encouragement to look after your mental health in a recent article in the Huffington Post: 14 Common Misconceptions About People Who Go to Therapy. You may see some parallels with reactions you get when people learn that you have CF.