Helplines in Ireland.

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

A chronic, life-altering, or life-threatening diagnosis can come as a shock. The effects of physical illness may make it hard to maintain a positive mental, emotional and spiritual outlook. There are counselors and volunteers at 9 helplines in Ireland who you can confide in when you feel:

• Guilt about the burden your physical illness has placed on your family and friends.
• Regret or shame about what you may have done to cause or deserve your illness.
• Denial, reluctance or an inability to accept your diagnosis or medical condition.
• That you are struggling to cope with the unpredictable or disabling aspects of your illness.
• 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.
• Fear of future physical discomfort, pain, changes to your routine, and possibly death.
• Worry that you are a burden and no longer as active or capable as before.

Physical illness can disrupt your sleep patterns, family life, social life, work life, and your ability to function as normal. Medication, pain and exhaustion can make it difficult to think straight or process your feelings. A bad diagnosis can feel devastating.

Facing the challenges of physical illness requires strength that can sometimes only come through support. There are volunteers and counselors in Ireland who are waiting to hear your concerns and help you find the emotional strength and resilience within you. Asking for help doesn't mean you're weak – it shows that you are human.