Dealing with depression on its own is difficult, but when combined with a serious illness, it can make life seem impossible to manage. Recent research has revealed that one-third of people with a serious illness experience depression as well.
You’re not alone in this struggle, and thankfully there is a way out. See below to learn more about the connection between depression and serious illness and what you can do to move forward on your path to recovery today.
The Connection Between Depression and Serious Illness
Although depression is often primarily associated with mental and emotional patterns, the truth is that your mind and body are deeply connected. In fact, there is an entire field of study dedicated to unraveling the connection between mental health and your immune system, known as psychoneuroimmunology.
Struggling with severe or chronic illnesses can be devastating emotionally and mentally and can lead to depression over time. Likewise, chronic depression can have a significant impact on your immune system and can lead to physical illness as well.
This feedback loop creates a cycle of struggle that may feel difficult to break out of, but there are now many healing modalities that take this body-mind connection into account and can help you shift your mental and physical health at the same time.
How to Manage Depression and Serious Illness
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Seek Support from Family & Providers
Depression and serious illness can feel isolating, but there are so many support systems in existence that are ready to help you. Whether you choose to speak to a family member, friend, or mental health provider, know that you are not alone in this, and there is a way out.
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Invest in Your Wellbeing
One of the most potent ways to improve your wellbeing is to invest in your self-care. Every day when you wake up, go to sleep, or in the middle of your workday, ask yourself, “What can I do at this moment to nurture or take care of myself?” You are worthy of love, care, and support, both from others and from yourself.
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Investigate Depression Treatment Options
Depression may feel unmanageable at times, but there are now many treatment options to help. Speak to your doctor about possible medications or therapies that can help. For depression and serious illness, many forms of somatic therapy can be particularly transformational in healing the mind and body simultaneously.
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Consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a safe and effective treatment for depression that directly targets the mind-body connection and can move you forward on your path to healing. Through noninvasive brain stimulation, you can potentially become completely symptom-free.
Get Support from Eastside TMS and Wellness Center
Depression and chronic illness are difficult to manage alone, but with the team at the Eastside TMS and Wellness Center, you no longer have to. Reach out to us today to book a consultation and begin your journey towards a happier and healthier life!
