Helplines in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Struggling to deal with the effects of physical illness? Get support from a hotline in Belfast, Northern Ireland

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 1 helplines in Belfast, Northern Ireland where you can confide in volunteers or counselors for support when you feel:

• Shame and sadness about becoming a burden to others.
• Stress about the financial burden that your illness will put on your family.
• Like a burden to friends or family, and no longer a valuable member of society.
• Loss of control and an intense feeling of helplessness in the face of your illness.
• That life isn’t worth living, given the limitations and pain associated with your medical condition.
• Isolated from those who don’t comprehend your discomfort or the seriousness of your condition.
• Fear that you'll be defined by your medical condition, instead of who you really are.
• Worry about the pain you'll feel, medical bills, death, and your family’s future happiness.

Illness is usually unexpected, and it sometimes seems unfair. Perhaps the news or consequences of your illness has made you feel numb with shock and disappointment, or overwhelmed with powerful emotions. The inability to think straight or function may make you feel frustrated, anguished or useless. You are still valued.

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 Belfast, Northern Ireland who understands the unspoken effects of physical illness on mental health.