3 Science-Backed Ways I Beat the Negative Emotions of Chronic Illness

The tried and true methods that help me manage stress, anxiety, and discouragement with fibromyalgia

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The physical symptoms associated with chronic illness are one burden to carry. But the negative emotions and mental anguish they bring are a totally different ballgame.

Chronic illness and injury tends to trigger a range of negative emotions, from anger and irritability to stress, anxiety and depression. Research shows that negative emotions frequently appear alongside both and . These can develop and change over time, as your illness or injury improves or worsens, leading to a sort of ebb and flow that follows the physical and psychological symptoms.

Even as my own condition has become more manageable, I still find myself stuck on bad days. Overwhelmed by the reality that — at least for the time being — I will be dealing with daily pain and fatigue that could be debilitating at any time, there are certainly days when I’m just plain discouraged.

Traveling, work, social events and even just getting out of bed in the morning can be enough to trigger a bout of stress and anxiety. Here are three science-backed methods that I practice to manage the negative…