Helplines in Otago, New Zealand.

Struggling to deal with the effects of physical illness? Get support from a hotline in Otago, New Zealand

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 0 helplines in Otago, New Zealand who you can confide in when you feel:

• Worried about how you’ll look after your family when you are sick, you lose your job, or become disabled.
• Loss of control and an intense feeling of helplessness in the face of your illness.
• Like a burden to friends or family, and no longer a valuable member of society.
• Self-hate over what you’ve become or what feel you must have done to deserve it.
• Worry about the pain you'll feel, medical bills, death, and your family’s future happiness.
• Grief about the health, mobility, social life and peace of mind that you have lost.
• That you are powerless, hopeless or burdensome.
• Afraid of what the future holds, including the pain you may feel, disabilities or death.

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.

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 Otago, New Zealand who understands the unspoken effects of physical illness on mental health.