Living with a Chronic Illness During COVID-19

Due to the current pandemic of COVD-19, our community has adapted to a new lifestyle that includes being vigilant about handwashing, continually disinfecting surfaces, wearing a face-covering when going outside, maintaining a safe distance from others and self-isolating if you are feeling ill. Although this may be a new lifestyle to many, individuals with a chronic illness have been living this lifestyle their entire life. As these individuals have already been implementing these habits, anxiety, and fear are provoked. Anxiety and fear are leading issues for an individual with a chronic illness as there is no further action to prevent the contraction of COVID-19, leaving a sense of no control.  

This manifestation of fear and anxiety not only occurs due to a lack of control but because of the disruption of routine healthcare. The delay or cancellation of appointments, procedures, and treatments may not be life-threatening for those with a chronic illness; however, it negatively impacts the individual's quality of life. Their quality of life is reduced as an increase in symptoms may result in an inability to complete duties related to their job, household tasks, or schoolwork. Additionally, the quality of life in individuals with a chronic illness may be negatively impacted by COVID-19, as numerous medications are in a national shortage. As individuals with chronic disease take numerous medications, a worsening of symptoms may occur as they are no longer able to obtain treatment.           

 As individuals with a chronic illness face additional challenges during this pandemic, we must understand how we can provide support. First, help can be given by offering to assist this population with obtaining necessary supplies. As individuals with chronic illnesses have a weakened immune system, it is challenging for them to do this independently. Similarly, it is important to check-in with them to see if they need assistance with obtaining prescriptions or any other medical supplies they might need. Secondly, it is essential to provide social support. Social support can be shown by calling, texting, or video chatting with this individual to check in on them. Also, ensure that the individual has an understanding of how they can set up appointments with their physicians, nurses, or mental health professionals using telehealth as this will allow them to discuss any urgent issues with their physicians without putting themselves at risk of COVID-19. Lastly, please be sure to reach out to a mental health professional if you are facing anxiety, depression, or stress during this difficult time. This is important as you must be able to take care of yourself to support your loved ones with a chronic illness.

Written by: Mary Colins, LPC, CADC