Mental Health and Chronic Illness

May is Purple and Green

Many of you are aware that this month is Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month but it’s also Mental Health Awareness Month. These are both topics I’m passionate about because I deal with both. I didn’t know about either disease until I really experienced a fight with both. Before I turned 10, I read that people with cystic fibrosis don’t normally live to the age of 25. I went into the ultimate panic mode. My anxiety was through the roof and I thought those words meant there was no way I would live a real life. I got depressed and angry and blamed the world for all my problems. It was then that I knew how serious my cystic fibrosis was but had no idea about the severity of my mental illness.

Depression and anxiety have plagued me most of my life. I credit that to the fact that I have to deal with a chronic illness my whole life. Because of my illness I strive hard every dat to love a “normal” life. What I mean by that is imagine trying to be a dad, a husband, a son, a brother and have a career while also battling a terminal illness and all that goes with that. Each day, I do two hours of treatments, take 40 pills, and exercise for over an hour.. It’s not easy especially when you want to hang with your wife, help your kids with their homework, coach little league and have any semblance of a writing/speaking career.

Luckily, I have taken the step needed to get my physical and mental health in order. I’ve spent time in an out-patient mental health facility and now take antidepressants daily. I also go to both a psychologist and a psychiatrist multiple times a year. Every now and then I say the serenity prayer or just sit out in the sun to clear my thoughts. I am excited that CF clinics around the nation are now giving surveys to patients to see if they are having issues with mental illness.

Studies have shown that people with chronic illness suffer more with mental illness so I know I am not alone.

Physical health starts with mental health no matter if you have a cronic illness. If you can have a positive mindset, you can do all the things you want to do to succeed. It goes the other way too. Physical exercise can help your outlook. The key is to focus on both. 

Your “health” depends on it. If you are feeling depressed or anxious talk to your healthcare provider. They will provide you the resources you need. Visit mentalhealth.gov for more info

Live your dreams and love your life.

Andy