Helplines in Burundi.

Battling to come to grips with a physical illness? Get support from a free hotline in Burundi

Everything changes when you’re diagnosed with a serious, chronic or life-threatening physical illness. Coping with your new reality can be challenging, especially when you feel isolated or alone. You are valued. There are 2 helplines in Burundi where you can confide in volunteers or counselors for support when you feel:

• That you can no longer be a valuable member of your family or social group.
• Grief about the health, mobility, social life and peace of mind that you have lost.
• Anxiety, tension, fear, sadness and helplessness about your condition and what the future holds.
• Denial, reluctance or an inability to accept your diagnosis or medical condition.
• Frustration and anger about the uncertainty and disabilities associated with your illness.
• Isolated from those who don’t comprehend your discomfort or the seriousness of your condition.
• Shame and sadness about becoming a burden to others.
• That you are powerless, hopeless or burdensome.

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.

No matter your diagnosis or medical outlook, you have the power to face the emotional challenges of physical illness with grace – but you do need support. Reaching out for help does not imply that you are weak or powerless – it simply indicates that you are human. Speak to a volunteer or counselor in Burundi who understands the unspoken effects of physical illness on mental health.