Chronic illness and depression often go hand in hand. Those with Charcot Foot are at an increased risk of developing depression. The isolation due to being non-weight bearing can intensify feelings of depression. Those depression may be an ongoing battle there are steps you can take to help you cope with chronic illness and depression.
Talk to a therapist
One of the best things you can do to help manage depression is talk with a neutral person. Talking about your feelings and developing healthy coping skills helps tremendously. While you can talk with family and friends we have found it’s most helpful to seek out a therapist because of their training and neutral status.
Since people with Charcot Foot are often home bound due to non-weight bearing status it can be helpful to find an online therapist. Many of us shy away from online therapy but we have found it is effective and reliable. We use onlinetherapy.com and love it. You work with a therapist trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. You participate in live chats and calls with your therapist and work through the therapy process together. Right now, onlinetherapy.com is offering our readers 20% off to get started. Just click here to begin the process.
If online therapy isn’t for you there are other options. Some therapists will come to your home for therapy services. Call around to different therapists in your area to see if this is a service offered. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of licensed therapists in your area. Seeking out therapy is worth the effort.
Treating depression with medication
If you are feeling depressed it is important to talk openly with your physician about how you are feeling. You doctor will be able to prescribe medication to help treat your depression. Every medication comes with side effects so discuss those with your doctor as well. Many of us with Charcot Foot have found medication to be helpful in treating depression and anxiety.
Develop a routine
Developing a routine can help you cope with chronic illness and depression. When we are non-weight bearing and stuck at home it is easy to sit around and feel sorry for ourselves. The entire day may pass as we sit on the couch thinking about all the things we are missing or stewing in our emotions.
It may seem silly, but creating a daily routine and sticking to it can help you feel better. Even though you are stuck on the couch make a plan for the day. Set your alarm and get up at a decent time and get ready for the day. Have breakfast and complete an activity. It doesn’t have to be a big activity but fold a load of towels, read two chapters of a book, send a note to a friend. Schedule your meal times and a time to exercise. Even 20 minutes of seated exercise will help improve your mood and keep you on a routine.
Connect with others
Maintaining connections with others will help you cope with depression. We all need human connection. Reach out to friends and family and schedule visits with them. Make phone calls and visit with friends you haven’t seen in awhile. Connect with others with Charcot Foot via the support group pages. Every day set a goal to interact with at least three people. You need contact!
Depression should be taken seriously. Don’t wait to get help. Talk with a friend, a therapist, or your doctor as soon as you begin experiencing depression. If at any time you feel suicidal call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.