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Coping and support
By Mayo Clinic staffAs is true with other chronic diseases, living with scleroderma can place you on a roller coaster of emotions. Here are some suggestions to help you even out the ups and downs:
- Maintain normal daily activities as best you can.
- Pace yourself and be sure to get the rest that you need.
- Stay connected with friends and family.
- Continue to pursue hobbies that you enjoy and are able to do.
If scleroderma makes it difficult for you to do things you enjoy, ask your doctor about ways to get around the obstacles.
Keep in mind that your physical health can have a direct impact on your mental health. Denial, anger and frustration are common with chronic illnesses.
At times, you may need additional tools to deal with your emotions. Professionals, such as therapists or behavior psychologists, may be able to help you put things in perspective. They can also help you develop coping skills, including relaxation techniques.
Joining a support group, where you can share experiences and feelings with other people, is often a good approach. Ask your doctor what support groups are available in your community.
- Scleroderma. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Scleroderma/default.asp. Accessed Aug. 4, 2008.
- Hummers LK, et al. Scleroderma. In: Imboden JB, et al. Current Rheumatology Diagnosis and Treatment. 2nd ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Companies Inc.; 2007. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aid=2725959. Accessed Aug. 4, 2008.
- Denton CP. Classification of scleroderma disorders. http://www.uptodate.com/index.html. Accessed Aug. 4, 2008.
- Varga J. Risk factors for and possible causes of systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). http://www.uptodate.com/index.html. Accessed Aug. 6, 2008.
- Varga J. Overview of the clinical manifestations of systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/index.html. Accessed Aug. 6, 2008.
- What is a rheumatologist? American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/public/rheumatologist.asp?aud=pat. Accessed Aug. 6, 2008.
