Maybe you always dreamed of being in top management at a large marketing firm, creating campaigns that would blow people away. Or maybe you saw yourself in politics, creating a name for yourself among some of the best and most influential people in history. Or, maybe you were just as happy finding a government position, with a steady 9-5, and a clear trajectory.
You have ambitious, goals and, frankly, bills to pay. But you also have a chronic illness.
How Having a Chronic Illness Can Impact Your Career
Many people who hold careers have a chronic illness, but many also struggle each and every day to maintain those jobs and their health. Having a chronic illness can impact your career significantly, especially if it affects your productivity and performance. (And, if you’re in need of accommodations, many workplaces make it downright impossible to get what you need to do your best.)
For many of us with chronic illnesses, one of the biggest struggles in the workplace is the potential decline in productivity. Our fatigue, pain, and brain fog can make it difficult to concentrate, complete tasks efficiently, and meet deadlines. That isn’t even taking into account the unpredictability of some conditions, which can lead to frequent sick days, days where you have to leave the office early (or come in late), or the multitude of doctor appointments that may interfere with work. Even if you manage to put in a full week of work without sick time taken, many who struggle with chronic illnesses are still left absolutely drained.
How Having a Chronic Illness Can Impact Your Career
Many people who hold careers have a chronic illness, but many also struggle each and every day to maintain those jobs and their health. Having a chronic illness can impact your career significantly, especially if it affects your productivity and performance. (And, if you’re in need of accommodations, many workplaces make it downright impossible to get what you need to do your best.)
For many of us with chronic illnesses, one of the biggest struggles in the workplace is the potential decline in productivity. Our fatigue, pain, and brain fog can make it difficult to concentrate, complete tasks efficiently, and meet deadlines. That isn’t even taking into account the unpredictability of some conditions, which can lead to frequent sick days, days where you have to leave the office early (or come in late), or the multitude of doctor appointments that may interfere with work. Even if you manage to put in a full week of work without sick time taken, many who struggle with chronic illnesses are still left absolutely drained.
To make matters harder, many who fall into this category find themselves constantly battling the anxiety of getting fired or let go. Regardless of the HIPAA violations, many individuals fear that their illness puts them into a precarious spot–if not at the risk of being let go, then at least left in positions that they don’t want to be in, or even demoted.
So what can those of us who live with a chronic illness do to maintain a career that gives us meaning and a paycheck?
Managing Work & Your Health while Having a Chronic Illness
While it might seem impossible, you can still maintain a career and your health if you’re willing to try. Here are a few tips to try if you find yourself struggling:
1. Manage Your Time
Prioritize your tasks and establish a realistic schedule. Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each. You know your energy levels best. If you know you work better in the morning, work on your hardest tasks early and save the more menial ones for later in the day.
2. Set Boundaries
This is probably the hardest tip to implement but one of the most important. Learn to say no. Recognize what you can and cannot do. It’s best to communicate your boundaries as early as possible to your colleagues and supervisors. Your health is worth prioritizing over whether or not you slightly incontinence someone else.
3. Maintain Open Communication
Be open and honest with your employer about your chronic illness. Discuss your limitations, needs, and any necessary accommodations you might require. This will help create a supportive and understanding work environment. And if not, you know it’s time to move on!
4. Ask for Reasonable Accommodations
If you need them, ask for a meeting with your manager or HR to lay out accommodations that can help you perform your job. This might be something like flexible working hours, modifications to your workspace, or the utilization of assistive technology.
5. Prioritize Your Health
Get the sleep, movement, and nutrition your body needs. Take those mental health days. Schedule vacations. Even if you feel guilty doing it, ultimately prioritizing your mental, physical, and emotional health will help you succeed in the career you want.
Chronic Illness Therapy in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Managing work and your health with a chronic illness requires a combination of self-care, communication, and making necessary adjustments. If you need help finding this balance, I provide therapy for managing chronic illness in Fort Lauderdale, FL. One of the therapies I use with my clients is CBT therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on addressing the negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that can exacerbate the impact of chronic illness. It aims to help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve their overall well-being. This type of therapy has been proven to be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with mental health issues related to their chronic illness.
It would be my honor to use my unique experience working with individuals with chronic illness to provide you with a tailored treatment plan that meets your specific needs and aspirations. Reach out today to learn more about how I can help you reach your career and health goals!
You Know That Nagging, Voice of Self-Doubt in Your Head? Tell It to Shut Up.
With therapy for anxiety, self esteem, or migraines, I can help you build an arsenal of tools you can use to achieve the life you deserve. Believe me. You got this!
Therapy & Coaching at Essence of Healing Counseling Services
Roberta Alves is a Therapist and Development Coach at Essence of Healing Counseling, in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. She is also a Certified Anxiety Specialist who uses solution-focused and evidence-based therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy. Research has shown that cognitive behavioral therapy is proven to be extremely effective in treating anxiety, improving self-esteem, and managing chronic illnesses. Roberta provides counseling services to her clients who live in Ft. Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida areas via online therapy. If you want to learn proven techniques to overcome stress, improve your self-esteem, manage your chronic illness symptoms, and achieve your goals, call # to schedule an appointment today.
