Chronic health issues & disabilities

Living with a disability or a severe, ongoing health issue can affect your mental health. This guide will help you identify ways to manage your situation and have a fulfilling life.
Woman who uses a wheelchair and a man sitting and talking

What is it?

Chronic health issues and disabilities are common conditions anyone can be faced with—in some cases, at the same time—that may impact overall functioning and mental health.

Chronic health issues are long-lasting medical conditions that require ongoing medical care. Nearly half of the U.S. population has at least one chronic health issue. They’re even more common among adults 65 or older—80% have at least one, and 68% have two or more issues.1 These challenges usually require support or ongoing care and can make it difficult to enjoy daily life. Cancer, heart disease, pain, diabetes, arthritis and Alzheimer's are common examples. 

What's causing it?

Interconnected factors can cause chronic health issues and disabilities. When you age, your risk of chronic health issues increases. And, chronic health issues can lead to disabilities. Biology, whether your own genetic traits or the environment around you, can play a role, too.

Chronic health issues can arise from a combination of genetic, physical, environmental and lifestyle factors. Chronic conditions last more than a year and require ongoing medical attention. They may also limit your ability to do day-to-day activities.

How should I deal with it?

As people age, they are more likely to continually develop health challenges that may be disabling. Being diagnosed with a chronic health issue or developing a disability are major changes that may trigger feelings of loss for the way life used to be. 

It’s important to allow yourself to experience your emotions so you can accept reality and move forward. It’s also important to understand that while aging and chronic health conditions are normal, there are still ways to feel in control of your medical situation so that it has minimal interference with the life you want to live. 

Things to Try

If you’re dealing with feelings and mental health challenges related to chronic health issues or disabilities, here are some small things you can do to start building long-term, positive habits.
  • two people sitting and talking at a table outdoors

    Ask for support from friends and family

    If you're going through a challenging time, think about who you feel comfortable with, and what interactions might feel supportive so you can tell people what you need—whether it's talking about how you’re feeling so you can release some pent-up emotions, or finding comfort by time together with no words exchanged.
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  • Create a sleep routine

    Creating a sleep routine (also referred to as practicing sleep hygiene) is something nice you can do for yourself to wind down at night and improve your chances at getting enough sleep (7-9 hours) and high quality sleep. Setting a "device curfew", going to bed at the same time each night, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and doing calming activities like taking a bath, journaling, reading, or meditating are all good things to try. Charging your phone outside of your bedroom is also great if you can manage it—getting an alarm clock can help!
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  • Invest in a weighted blanket

    TLDR: Weighted blankets work. Weighted vests even work for our animal friends! And there are even weighted stuffed animals.The science is simple: It's like being tucked in – safe and secure – or like a big hug from someone you love. The weight in a weighted blanket is proven to help settle nerves and improve sleep, which in turn has all sorts of benefits for your health.
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More Things To Try

What can I do now?

Dealing with chronic health issues and disabilities can make anyone feel like there’s a long journey ahead. But while that journey might seem long, remember that many folks are going through it, too. There are resources that can help you take control of your situation, and there are support options that can help you feel empowered to manage your physical and mental health now and in the future.

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