Chronic illness and disability are significant challenges that individuals face throughout their lives. These challenges can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life, mental health, and well-being. It is therefore essential for counselors to have a strong understanding of how individuals adapt to chronic illness and disability and how they can best support their clients through the process. In the article “Psychosocial Adaptation to Chronic Illness and Disability: A Primer for Counselors,” Livneh and Antonak (2005) provide an overview of the key issues that counselors need to consider when working with clients who have chronic illness and disability.
Livneh and Antonak (2005) begin by discussing the impact of chronic illness and disability on individuals’ daily lives. They note that the experience of chronic illness and disability can lead to physical and emotional pain, social isolation, and feelings of loss and grief. The authors emphasize the importance of recognizing that the experience of chronic illness and disability is unique to each individual and that counselors need to be mindful of their clients’ individual experiences.
The authors then introduce the concept of psychosocial adaptation, which refers to the process by which individuals adjust to chronic illness and disability. They note that this process is complex and can involve a range of emotional and cognitive responses, including denial, anger, depression, and acceptance. Livneh and Antonak (2005) stress that counselors need to be aware of the range of responses that clients may have and that they need to be prepared to support their clients through each stage of the adaptation process.
One of the key themes that runs throughout the article is the importance of promoting clients’ sense of control and empowerment. Livneh and Antonak (2005) note that clients with chronic illness and disability often feel a loss of control over their lives and that this can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair. Counselors can help to counteract these feelings by working with clients to identify areas in which they can exert control, such as managing their symptoms, engaging in activities that they enjoy, and developing a support network. The authors stress that counseling should aim to enhance clients’ sense of control and self-determination, which can help them feel more empowered and less powerless.
Another important theme in the article is the importance of addressing clients’ emotional needs. Livneh and Antonak (2005) note that clients with chronic illness and disability often experience a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, and fear. Counselors need to be prepared to address these emotions and to help clients develop coping strategies that allow them to manage their emotional responses in healthy ways. The authors stress that counselors should work with clients to develop a range of coping strategies, such as relaxation techniques, cognitive restructuring, and social support. It’s important for counselors to tailor coping strategies to each client’s individual needs and preferences.
The authors also discuss the importance of addressing clients’ social needs. Livneh and Antonak (2005) note that clients with chronic illness and disability often experience social isolation, which can contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression. Counselors should work with clients to develop a support network that can provide emotional and practical assistance. The authors emphasize that counselors should also be prepared to advocate for their clients’ social needs, such as access to community resources and accommodations in the workplace.
Finally, the article stresses the importance of self-care for counselors working with clients with chronic illness and disability. Counselors may experience emotional strain due to the demanding nature of this work, and it’s important for them to take steps to maintain their own emotional and physical well-being. This may involve self-care activities such as exercise, social support, and seeking professional consultation when needed.
Livneh and Antonak (2005) highlights the importance of a holistic approach to counseling individuals with chronic illness and disability. By addressing clients’ sense of control, emotional needs, social needs, and promoting self-care for both clients and counselors, counselors can provide effective support for individuals navigating the challenges of chronic illness and disability.
Authors: Livneh, H. and Antonak, R.F.
Year of publication: 2005
Article title: Psychosocial adaptation to chronic illness and disability: a primer for counselors
Journal name: Journal of Counseling & Development
Volume: 83
Issue: 1
Page numbers: 12-20
Citation for this article:
LeClair, L.M. (2020, February 28). Adapting to Life with Chronic Illness. CounselingConfidential.com. https://www.counselingconfidential.com/article/Adapting_to_Life_with_Chronic Illness-medical-condition