The news and reality of a physical illness can have a disruptive impact on your life. You may have trouble doing things that seemed effortless before. You may feel alone, burdensome, or isolated from your friends and family. In England there are 4 helplines you can contact for support whenever you feel:

That life isn’t worth living, given the limitations and pain associated with your medical condition.
Isolated from friends and family due to the physical and mental effects of your condition.
Fear that you'll be defined by your medical condition, instead of who you really are.
Isolated from those who don’t comprehend your discomfort or the seriousness of your condition.
Anxiety, tension, fear, sadness and helplessness about your condition and what the future holds.
Cut off from your family and friends who cannot understand what you are going through.
Unsure how to process the reality of death or come to terms with your mortality.
Depression about the life you've lost, things you cannot do, and places you cannot go.

The impacts of physical illness can extend beyond physical pain and disability. The emotions you feel from these sudden or ongoing changes to your normal way of life can be overwhelming, and you may need support. You likely need someone to confide, who can help you find your inner strength.

You have the potential to face physical illness with grace and resilience. To do so, you need to nurture your mental and emotional wellbeing. You can start by confiding in someone in England who understands how deeply medical distress can affect your mental health. Reaching for support does not make you weak, helpless or incapable – it just means you’re human.