As a post-transplant patient, protecting my mental health is vital
I avoid negativity at all costs, because it's detrimental to my well-being
When I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in January 2017, there didn’t seem to be as much chaos in the world as there is today. Perhaps the drama seemed more distant, or maybe I was just completely engaged in learning about my disease. Today, every topic seems to be an opportunity for further division.
Dealing with a chronic progressive disease like IPF requires a significant amount of my energy, and I knew I had to focus on my health to get better. I had to step away from all of the negativity to conserve what little energy I still had.
In my opinion, the 24-hour news cycle that is today’s reality can negatively affect our mental health. When coupled with the complications of IPF, or any chronic, progressive disease for that matter, it can exacerbate even the calmest person’s anxiety.
The bottom line: Protect yourself
About three years ago, I had a bilateral lung transplant, and I have to tell you that as a post-transplant patient, large doses of negativity have at times affected my well-being. Therefore, I don’t engage in political discussions anymore, and if a conversation becomes uncomfortable, I simply make a graceful exit.
For my own well-being, I’m currently taking a break from the 24-hour news cycle. That doesn’t mean I’ve become a hermit or that I’ve completely withdrawn from social interactions. I’ve simply stepped away from constant updates about U.S. and world events.
I do like to hear good news, though, such as the recurring segment at the end of Lester Holt’s NBC Nightly News broadcast, which covers uplifting stories.
I also volunteer in my community as a way to give back. This provides me an opportunity to step away from the negativity and be a bright spot in someone’s day.
Whatever you choose, just think about what’s best for your mental health. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need someone to talk to, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers support 24/7. The service can also be accessed via text messaging.
I made a choice that I believe is right for me. It will reduce my stress and allow me to make every breath count.
If you are in the U.S., make your voice heard this November by exercising your right to vote.
Note: Pulmonary Fibrosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Pulmonary Fibrosis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to pulmonary fibrosis.
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Comments
Cathy Whelton
Hello, positivity is a choice. After 41 years of marriage, my husband died. The journey is completely unknown. I met a friend at a meetup widow widowers time who explained positivity and the Law of Attraction. Changed my life. My friend has IPF and just recovered slowly from pneumonia. He's 73 so too old for transplant. Hoping a clinical drug trial at university of MD will help. I mean--i know my friend will improve. Behind every cloud is a rainbow
Bob W Okowitz
I agree that the news can be upsetting. My wife loves it, so sometimes I just leave the room. I like writing poetry, swimming and going to the gym. I also go to support groups, like the online group with PUL. Fibrosis Found. THX for yr comments.
Linda C Norberg
I was mentioning to a much younger member how therapy has helped me through some difficult times. I was devastated when I was told I had CPFE which has a very poor prognosis. I went through this must be a mistake I quit smoking when I was 30. I have been otherwise healthy until I got COVID. That turned into long COVID with a cough and shortness of breath. The end result was much more testing and ultimately the CPFE diagnosis. I am not a psychiatrist therapy person and was resistant when my doctor suggested it. That was one of the best decisions I've made. My therapist has helped me navigate a lot of the pitfalls and helped me figure out a path forward. If anyone is going through difficult times with these lung diseases I would highly recommend you consider reaching out to someone who you can discuss the difficult thoughts and questions. Hope this is helpful.
Mac
I was diagnosed with IPF last year.Coincidentally I had enrolled in Buddhist Meditation just previously to diagnosis.The shock of knowing that I have an essentially terminal disease was profound .I’m 77 and expected to live into my 90sa no uncommon occurrence in my family.I am on Ofev. So hopefully my decline will be slowed.To me the worst aspect is the breathlessness and resultant activity loss.However I find that the meditation and Buddhist teachings of acceptance forgiveness and impermanence impermanence have alleviated my worrying and improved my emotional wellbeing and attitude.It helps me to monitor my thinking.Hope this is helpful Mac from Wollongong Australia