How do you stay motivated when managing an autoimmune disease?
One of the leading questions I receive when people discover that I have multiple autoimmune diseases is:
How do you stay motivated while managing a chronic condition?
Navigating the complexities of an autoimmune disease can indeed be challenging, but I've found that maintaining motivation is essential for fostering a positive outlook and overall well-being. Here are a few strategies I have learned and found helpful:
Set Realistic Goals
Break down your larger health goals! Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make them feel less daunting. Celebrate each little victory along the way! It helps keep your spirits high!
Educate Yourself
The main reason I became a Health Coach was when my sons were diagnosed with Coeliac Disease. I wanted them to have better health in the future than I have had. Educating myself about my conditions empowers me to make informed choices about my health and treatment options. Understanding your condition better through research and support groups is important. This is why our Facebook Support Group was formed (details below). Knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and treatment options.
Build a Support System Around You
Surround yourself with friends, family, and others who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your experiences can provide emotional support and motivation.
Focus on What You Can Control
While there may be aspects of your condition that you can’t change, focusing on your lifestyle choices - like diet, exercise, and stress management - can help you feel more in control and improve your overall health.
Practice Mindfulness
Engage in activities promoting relaxation and well-being, like meditation, yoga, or leisure time in nature. These practices can help reduce stress and improve your mood. As a full-time working mum with four boys, I initially found this to be the most challenging aspect. I struggled with both time and energy. However, I've come to realise that this is the most crucial part of managing my autoimmune diseases. Today, I make it part of my daily routine to engage in mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to help me stay grounded and focused on the present, alleviating feelings of anxiety. It significantly helps to reduce my stress levels, which in turn mitigates flare-ups for me.
Prioritise Self-Care
Making time for activities that nourish both the body and mind - like reading, art, or simply soaking in a warm bath - replenishes my energy and spirit.
Embrace Creativity
Incorporating creative outlets into my routine, such as journaling or painting, not only serves as a form of expression but also offers a therapeutic escape.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity tailored to your abilities can boost your energy and help alleviate some symptoms. Finding a routine you enjoy can make it easier to stick with.
Maintain a Positive Mindset
Try to focus on the positives in your life and practice gratitude. Keeping a journal of things that bring you joy can help shift your focus away from negative thoughts.
Seek Professional Support
Don’t hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals for guidance, whether it’s a therapist, nutritionist, or your doctor. They can provide valuable support and resources.
Connect with Supportive Communities
Surrounding myself with others who understand my journey provides a sense of belonging and encouragement. Sharing experiences can be both uplifting and educational. Joining support groups, either in person or online, can help you feel less isolated and connect you with others who share similar experiences. There is a link below if you wish to join our Facebook Support Group.
Keep a Routine
Establishing a daily routine can help create a sense of normalcy and stability, making it easier to manage symptoms and stay engaged in daily activities.
By employing these strategies, I cultivated resilience and a sense of joy, even amidst the challenges of living with autoimmune diseases.
Where Should You Start?
Which strategy interests you the most? Choose one to adopt and begin. It’s perfectly fine if you stumble a few times along the way – I certainly did! It takes time to foster a new habit. By embracing these strategies, you can nourish your motivation and navigate the inevitable ups and downs that accompany managing an autoimmune condition more effectively.
Facebook Support Group
A Facebook group set up to support those living with Autoimmune Diseases or are living gluten-free, dairy-free life.
