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The psychological aspect of dealing with bronchiectasis and MAC.
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Jul 24 7:18am | Replies (49)Comment receiving replies
Dealing with Lung Diease, MAC, MAI, Psedomonas etc....is very difficult, and emotionally can lead to depression and anxiety, especially when first diagnosed...this is so normal...and happens to us all, to various degrees, depending on your diagnosis and the severity of symptoms...it's comparable to the grief we experience, when losing someone...This is the same type of grief with loss of health...symptoms including lack of joy, and reduced interest in things that used to bring us happiness. depression seems to be more common among women than men...it's important that we recognize the symptoms of depression, and get the support that we deserve...Many times our friends and family members don't understand what we have to deal with our Lung disease, which can isolate even more..This support group empowers us to learn as much as we can about our disease, but the emotional journey, I find is just as important as important, if not more so because it impacts on our physical health as well. I continue to experience the roller coaster of emotions, but have a therapist that helps me with my spiritual journey of mindfulness and awareness for the unchartered road ahead...peace and love.
Replies to "Dealing with Lung Diease, MAC, MAI, Psedomonas etc....is very difficult, and emotionally can lead to depression..."
Such eloquent words and all are so true. I was very depressed at first, was diagnosed in 2016, but through prayer and supplication, I am doing very well. I do not take any antibiotics anymore, my pulmonary doctor is just watching me now and I feel great!!!!!
To be honest with you all; I have had this for so long that I just accept it as my norm now. I am pretty sure that I have gone through all of the steps to get to acceptance. Thankfully, I am in a good place now. My bronchiectasis is stable, fingers crossed, mac & pseudomonas are still in remission. I know it is emotionally difficult when you are first diagnosed, and when you are fighting an active infection. Hugs to you all - Terri
Thank you for this post. I know it is a few years old but for someone who is new to dealing with this diagnosis and still trying to figure out treatment, your comforting words are timeless and priceless. it helps to know others felt the same feelings of sadness and loss when they learned of they had to deal with this illness. Feeling pretty sad right now but trusting in my physicians and myself to heal.
Hi rwhite725.....you will be okay....Day at a time...this group is amazing for the knowledge and emotional support you get...we have all been there, and continue as warriors..
Hi @rwhite725, welcome to the MAC & Bronchiectasis group on Connect https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/mac-bronchiectasis/. I encourage to browse the various topics and discussions. You'll find a wealth of first-hand experience, information and support from fellow members, especially in the main discussion here:
- (MAC/MAI) MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM COMPLEX PULMONARY DISEASE/BRONCHIECTASIS https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mycobacterium-avium-complex-pulmonary-disease-macmai/
We look forward to getting to know more about you.
@rwhite725, Hello and welcome to our Connect group. I apologize for not responding to you sooner. This site is a great place to share your experiences, ask questions, or just read. There are several ways to glean information that has been past posted. We have the 'Discussion Board' which pops up when you click on the 'Mac and Bronchiectasis Group'. The Discussion Board is great because it has Topics to choose from in dealing with this disease. You can read through everybody's posts as they appear on the thread, and you can click on member's @name to see all that they have posted. @katemn is a good one to click on as an example. Do you have a first name? Or would you prefer to be addressed as @rwhite725? I look forward to learning more about you. -Terri
Dear @rwhite, Good morning. I haven't seen you post in awhile. Are you alright?
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That is very good advice and very well said!