Question: I have Alzheimer's. How do I cope with my feelings about this disease?
If you've recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, it's normal to experience a wide range of difficult feelings, such as denial, anger, fear, loneliness, frustration, loss, and/or depression. A variety of coping mechanisms are available to deal with issues as challenging as Alzheimer's:
Answer:
- Consider keeping a journal to write down, express, and work through your feelings.
- Avoid drinking alcohol as a way of coping. It could interact with medications or cause additional health problems. It also will not effectively address your feelings and often leaves you feeling worse than before.
- Consider joining an early-stage support group to connect with others who have Alzheimer's and to learn more about the disease. Contact your local Alzheimer’s Association to find your nearest early-stage support group.
- Keep the lines of communication open with family and friends. Although you might feel withdrawn or embarrassed, continue to share your feelings with them.
- If you're depressed and find that other methods of coping are not working, seek mental health treatment from a professional who has expertise in Alzheimer's disease and related issues.
- Plan for the future. Although it may be a long way off, decide how you want things handled when you can no longer care for yourself. Communicate your preferences to your family -- especially your primary caregiver -- and make necessary legal and financial arrangements. Also consider where you'd like to live if other housing arrangements become necessary. Making these decisions now will bring peace of mind to both you and your family.
Sources:
Ten tips for keeping your independence. Alzheimer's Association. 2008. http://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_10269.asp
What happens next? A booklet about being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder. National Institutes of Health. August 2007. http://www.nia.nih.gov/NR/rdonlyres/65BFAE0E-DE6B-4B18-A6EA-95C356060827/0/What_Happens_Next082207.pdf
