Chronic illness: How it affects self-esteem and tips to improve it

What is self-esteem?

Self-esteem refers to the way we perceive ourselves and how we value our worth and significance.

People with healthy self-esteem often feel more capable of overcoming obstacles and tend to be more persistent. They also feel confident in expressing their opinions and making decisions without fearing others' judgments.

Self-esteem develops primarily through personal experiences, with early experiences having the most enduring impact. Parental attitudes, interactions with loved ones, and verbal exchanges during childhood lay the foundation for self-esteem.

Negative experiences, such as repeated criticism, bullying, or physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, can severely damage self-esteem.

Chronic illness, associated pain, and medical or surgical treatments can disrupt a person's body image and have both physical and psychological effects, potentially leading to a loss of self-esteem.

What are the links between self-esteem and chronic illness?

The physical and emotional impact of illness on self-esteem

Chronic illness often brings persistent symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and physical limitations. These challenges can alter body perception, resulting in dissatisfaction or frustration.

For instance, loss of autonomy or changes in physical appearance, due to treatments or the illness itself, can affect self-image.

Emotionally, managing a chronic illness can be taxing. Setbacks, flare-ups, and uncertainty about the future can lead to feelings of failure or helplessness, further weakening self-esteem.

The social impact of illness on self-esteem

Illness can profoundly affect social relationships. Others’ reactions, ranging from misunderstanding to stigma, can lead to feelings of difference or isolation.

Judgments about appearance, frequent absences from social events, and general ignorance about the illness can create a sense of exclusion. Some patients may even hide their condition to avoid negative reactions or pity, which can foster emotional loneliness.

Struggles to maintain stable relationships or fully engage in social life may gradually erode self-confidence and the sense of belonging, resulting in a decline in self-esteem.

The professional impact of illness on self-esteem

In the workplace, chronic illness often demands significant adjustments, such as adopting a modified schedule, reducing workload, or even ceasing professional activity altogether.

Although necessary for health, these changes may feel like a loss of performance or status. Feeling less competent or less valuable compared to others can damage self-esteem.

Additionally, workplace discrimination, such as limited professional opportunities or lack of employer support, can worsen this struggle. Financial concerns related to the illness can also add to the psychological and emotional burden.

How can you improve self-esteem while living with a chronic illness?

Despite the challenges of chronic illness, it is possible to rebuild and maintain positive self-esteem.

Acceptance of the illness

The first step is acceptance, not as resignation, but as recognition of your limits and a focus on what remains possible. Embracing your specific needs and the changes brought by the illness can help you adapt and transform constraints into strengths.

Building a support network

Social support from understanding individuals, whether family, friends, or support groups, is invaluable. Connecting with others who are in similar situations can offer perspective and reduce feelings of isolation. Online communities or associations can also foster a sense of belonging and validation.

Engaging in enjoyable activities

Participating in activities that bring joy or a sense of accomplishment can boost self-image. Learning new skills, engaging in creative pursuits, or practicing adapted sports highlight your abilities beyond physical or emotional limitations.

Seeking therapeutic help

Therapeutic interventions can be especially beneficial for enhancing self-esteem. Psychotherapy can help identify negative thoughts, replace them with positive and realistic beliefs, and develop a kinder self-view. Mindfulness meditation and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are also effective for managing illness-related emotions and fostering a positive outlook.

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