Specialties

• Alcohol & drug addictions
• Eating Disorders
• Depression & anxiety
• Chronic illness & disability
• Stress related problems
• Post-traumatic stress
• Relationship & family issues
• Gay & Lesbian issues
• Mid-life Issues
• Older adult issues
• Support in coping with life transitions

Chronic Illness & disability

Chronic illness and/or disability come to humans as uninvited guests and yet become lifelong companions. If they arrive in adulthood, they can cause far-reaching changes in work, home, social lives, body image, and self-esteem. Pain and fatigue, which used to occur only during a temporary cold or flu, may now become part of daily life. Many, when adapting to these changes say that they don't feel like themselves, don't know who they are anymore, and want desperately to get their old lives back.

Children affected by these conditions may be unable to do many of the things that their peers can, and they tragically undervalue their worth as a result. They can become apathetic about school, social life and, in later life, job and family goals.

Caregivers are often the forgotten victims of illness and disability, and yet their lives can be turned as upside down as are those of their loved ones. In fact, they may be even more burdened physically, financially and emotionally with fewer supports.

Whether one is the affected person, a caregiver, child, or other close friend or relative, times like this can be overwhelming. Not only are there physical challenges such as pain, fatigue and increased contact with medical personnel for the affected person, there are logistical problems as well. At the same time, all involved are affected emotionally, be it by grief, loss, loneliness, isolation, relationship discord, fear or depression; these are powerful, if less tangible, side effects of illness and disability.

Whatever your situation, talking with someone who wants to know what it is like to be you in your day-to-day life can make a world of difference. We at Temenos can assist you to:

• Reduce your stress
• Increase your self-esteem by helping healing emotions
• Help you take charge of your life
• Prioritize the many demands on your time and energy
• Plan approaches to medical appointments and procedures
• Improve communication with friends and family
• Build a support system

Like many other people, you may find that the lessons learned from difficult health challenges are a priceless gift. When it comes to what really matters, such as positive and close relationships, self-empowerment, and inner peace, your life can become richer than ever before.

NEXT: Stress related problems >