The role of psychotherapy in accepting illness

Seconds that feel like minutes in the doctor's office when they finally deliver the final diagnosis, seconds that can and will certainly change the life of whoever receives this news. Faced with this scenario, reactions can be diverse. The paths life takes can be diverse. We can fall into sadness and the uncertain certainties that nothing will ever be the same. We can ignore and pretend that nothing is happening, that nothing has changed. We can face it and look for the positive sides. What is the healthiest way? There isn't a single correct answer to this question. Each person is unique and individual, with a history, with a personality, and sometimes what is healthy for one doesn't necessarily have to be healthy for another.

The aim of psychotherapy in these processes is to adjust. It's as if we press a reset button. Everything is there, we just want to reorganise it adaptively.

Receiving a diagnosis of an illness can be one of the most challenging times in someone's life. The emotional impact is enormous and can trigger a range of psychological responses. Studies show that approximately 30% of people diagnosed with a chronic illness develop symptoms of anxiety and depression (Smith, J. et al., 2018). Psychotherapy plays a crucial role in this process, helping patients to explore their emotions and find a path to acceptance and adaptation.

We cannot confuse acceptance with resignation. The process of acceptance involves recognising the reality of the situation and finding ways to live fully within these new circumstances. Psychotherapy offers a safe space to explore fears, frustrations, and insecurities. It promotes self-knowledge and self-acceptance, which are essential at this stage, as rediscovery is often necessary.

Benefits of Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy provides several benefits for those undergoing a process of accepting an illness:

• Emotional ExploitationIt allows you to explore and better understand your emotions.
• Reduction of Anxiety and DepressionTo help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with the diagnosis.
• Development of Coping StrategiesIt teaches you techniques and strategies for dealing with stress and daily challenges.
• Strengthening ResilienceContributes to the development of a resilient attitude in the face of adversity.
• Improving Quality of LifeIt promotes a positive adaptation that can improve your quality of life.

If you are going through this process, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Psychotherapy can be a valuable resource to aid in accepting and adapting to a new reality in your life.

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