Helplines in South Korea.

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

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 South Korea 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.

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.

Physical illness can bring emotional challenges that are hard to face without proper support. In South Korea, you can contact a helpline to speak with a counselor or volunteer who cares and understands how physical illness can impact on mental health. Asking for help does not mean that you're weak – it simply shows that you are human.