🔑 Key Definitions
Chronic Illness: Long-lasting condition that cannot be cured, only managed
Quality of Life (QoL): Subjective well-being including physical, psychological, social aspects
Adjustment: Process of adapting to life changes caused by illness
Self-Management: Patient's active role in managing their own condition
Quality of Life (QoL): Subjective well-being including physical, psychological, social aspects
Adjustment: Process of adapting to life changes caused by illness
Self-Management: Patient's active role in managing their own condition
🧠 Psychological Reactions to Chronic Illness
- Denial: Initial refusal to accept diagnosis
- Anxiety: Worry about future, treatment, mortality
- Depression: Common response to loss of health/function
- Anger: "Why me?" frustration with situation
- Acceptance: Coming to terms with new reality
📊 Factors Affecting Adjustment
- Personal factors: Personality, coping style, previous experiences
- Illness factors: Severity, visibility, predictability
- Social factors: Support from family, friends, healthcare team
- Environmental factors: Access to care, financial resources
🛠 Tasks of Adjustment
- Managing symptoms and treatment
- Maintaining emotional balance
- Preserving self-concept and identity
- Maintaining relationships
- Preparing for uncertain future
💡 Exam Tips
- Depression is MOST common psychological response to chronic illness
- Social support is KEY protective factor for adjustment
- Quality of Life includes physical, psychological, AND social dimensions
- Adjustment is a PROCESS, not an endpoint
- Self-management empowers patients to actively participate in their care