Coping With COPD: Taking Care of Your Emotional Health

With your diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), your life has likely altered. Adjusting to this new way of life is a process and will not happen overnight. Your symptoms, changes in energy, and concern for the future might cause you and your loved ones to feel angry, depressed or worried— this is normal.

An important aspect of living and coping with COPD is learning how to deal with the emotions that come along with the disease. You may have been active all of your life, and now you may not do the things you once enjoyed. You most likely feel slowed down and incapable of spontaneity since toting around oxygen and living with sleep problems and fatigue make it difficult to just pick up and go. Many people may find limitations in doing the things that once filled their lives, like traveling, dancing and gardening.

These are all important losses that may be felt.. It is normal to feel angry, afraid, sad, depressed, guilty, stressed and frustrated with all of the changes your life has seen. However, it is critical that you allow yourself to feel these things, even when it is uncomfortable. This not only benefits your emotional health but also your physical health, as people with COPD who also suffer from depression and/or anxiety are at a higher risk for COPD exacerbations.

The following tips can help you deal with some of these emotions:

• Get dressed every day.
• Go out and walk whenever possible.
• Keep up with activities or hobbies you enjoy.
• Stay involved with others, and involve your friends and family in your healthcare appointments.
• Share your feelings with your spouse, a friend or a clergy member.
• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Follow your treatment plan.
• Set and follow a realistic daily schedule.
• Join a support group for people with your condition.

As you begin to take charge of your health and make positive changes, you might find that the negative feelings start to fade. However, if negative feelings continue to interfere with your ability to enjoy life, consult with your healthcare provider. Joining a support group or seeking professional counseling may help you feel better. But remember to be patient with yourself as you learn about coping with your emotions. Change does not occur overnight.

(Information in this article was compiled from sources including the Cleveland Clinic and various CPOD support groups.)