The reality of physical illness can be disruptive to your life, impacting how you do basic tasks and the way you see yourself. A serious diagnosis can leave you feeling helpless, defeated, isolated, burdensome and afraid. There are 6 helplines in Australia where you can confide in a volunteer or counselor. Consider contacting them if you feel:

Grief about the health, mobility, social life and peace of mind that you have lost.
Self-hate over what you’ve become or what feel you must have done to deserve it.
Unsure how to process the reality of death or come to terms with your mortality.
Afraid of what the future holds, including the pain you may feel, disabilities or death.
Frustration and anger about the uncertainty and disabilities associated with your illness.
Loss of control and an intense feeling of helplessness in the face of your illness.
Worry that you are a burden and no longer as active or capable as before.
Shame and sadness about becoming a burden to others.

Depending on your illness, personality, age, lifestyle and home support system, there are a range of difficult emotions you may be feeling. Illness can be life-changing, and it is always unexpected.

You have the potential to face the challenges of illness with resilience and grace – but you do need support. By reaching to a helpline in Australia, you can talk with counselor or volunteer who understands the unspoken, emotional effects of physical illness. Contacting a helpline doesn't mean you're weak – it simply shows that you are human.