Therapy can make a huge difference when it comes to patient outcomes for people who are diagnosed with long-term or serious illnesses. Whether used to inspire hope, make sense of feelings, or as a motivational tool, patients with various diagnoses have often turned to therapists and counselors or even support groups in hopes of a better outcome. If you or someone you love is facing a medical concern and aren’t sure whether or not therapy could help, read on.
Family Therapy and Supports
Receiving a diagnosis is always hard. Regardless of how serious your medical condition is, it’s good to have someone on your side to listen. While you can always turn to family and friends, an unbiased or neutral person stands to offer an objective opinion and compassion.
Maybe you live in New York City and have taken the time to research NYC therapists. This is a great first step in the patient outcome you want with your medical diagnosis. But before your first appointment, take the time to write down your goals. Whether you’re looking for help in accepting your diagnosis or need support in telling your children, licensed psychotherapists can help.
For couples, couple therapy is a great option for managing the emotions that come with a medical diagnosis. Therapists with a background in romantic relationships have tools in how you can support each other through the trying times ahead without major sacrifices to your relationship.
Before you give any therapist a call, be sure to do your research. Look at reviews and try to find out what type of therapy they practice. A therapist with a specialty in medical issues might be best, but family therapists or those who work with groups could help out too, as you’ll want a big support team around you.
Also, consider joining a support group. While it’ll be nice to have a therapist and family around you, no one will understand what you’re going through quite like others in the same situation. Shared experiences can lead to better outcomes in the same way counseling will help you.
Acceptance and Grieving
Part of getting a medical diagnosis is learning how to cope with it. Both acceptance and grieving are things counseling can help with. If you’ve been receiving cancer treatment in Howell, NJ, for example, think about asking your social worker or case manager about psychotherapy in your area. Because therapy is proven to help with patient outcomes, you might be surprised at how quickly your health care providers can work to get you a referral to a psychiatrist or therapist who’s a great match for you.
Hope and Encouragement
Family or group therapy are great ways to help your patient outcomes, too. With a support team around you and the help of a therapeutic relationship, you will have the tools to enlist a supportive team around you. From cooking meals to helping with fundraisers and keeping your spirits high, a positive support group can go a long way in helping you get through a rough diagnosis.
While every illness will have normal obstacles, therapy can help offer hope and encouragement regularly. As you juggle appointments, medications, and testing, taking time out regularly for mental health check-ins will go a long way in better results. Therapists are familiar with this type of work and will have advocacy suggestions for you as well. They will walk with you every step of the way and become an important part of your care team.
In the end, patient outcomes are often changed by a great support system and a therapist’s help. A tough diagnosis is hard on anyone, but with the help of a psychologist, family members, and friends, you will have a better chance at achieving that positive medical outcome you’re hoping for.