Essential Steps to Take Upon Learning You Have an Incurable Disease
It can be a very hard day when you learn that you have an incurable disease such as diabetes. There will be a lot of emotions and feelings of uncertainty, but you must try to stay strong. There are ways that you can live your best days and feel better during this tough time. Here are some tips that you can use to make the most out of your diagnosis and continue to enjoy each new day.
Decide if You Need to Rent or Buy a New Home
As your condition progresses, you may find that your current home and living situation is exacerbating your symptoms and that you need to make a change in order to remove some of the stress from your life. At this point, you can move to an apartment or find a smaller house that will fit your needs. You can find apartment listings online and filter by desired amenities, cost, and more.
If you’re planning on buying, you need to complete extensive research and make sure it is right for your situation. The first step in buying a house is checking your credit report. You will need a decent credit score if you hope to get approved for a loan. If you notice errors on your credit report, then inform the bureau immediately. You should also consider hiring a real estate agent who can help you find properties that suit your needs. When you believe you have found the perfect home, have it inspected. You do not want to have to deal with home repairs unless absolutely necessary.
Ease Your Financial Situation
You will likely need to set some money aside for healthcare expenses during this time, and if money is tight, then the first step you need to take is to create a budget. Look at all of your recurring expenses and cut anything you don’t need, like those daily coffee runs and all of the streaming services that you may not watch. Then, look at what you have left over and dedicate the necessary funds to your medical expenses.
Find the Right Health Insurance
When it comes to managing a chronic condition, having access to high-quality healthcare is absolutely essential. Thankfully, there are a number of tools that can help you find the right health insurance for your needs. For example, online comparison sites allow you to easily search through hundreds of different plans and policies to find coverage that meets your unique requirements and budget. In addition, many insurers now offer discount programs tailored specifically to individuals with ongoing health concerns, giving cardholders access to significant savings on prescriptions and other treatments. If you’re a freelancer, you can find comprehensive health insurance policies through the Freelancers Union, Affordable Care Act, or Medicaid (if you qualify).
Relieve Your Stress as Best as You Can
You are likely very stressed during this time, especially as you figure out what lies ahead, but you must learn to ease your anxiety, so you do not make your health issues worse. If you are feeling a lot of negative emotions, then consider writing in a journal every night or talking to a professional therapist if things get worse.
It is important to spend time doing things that you love, so you aren’t always focused on your illness. Jigsaw puzzles, walks through the park, and scrapbooking are all great ways that you can enjoy your days while also taking your mind off of things. You should also try exercising in the mornings so you can stay in good shape. This routine will also provide natural energy that can carry you through the day.
Bring in Some Help
As things progress, you may need to bring in some helping hands. If family is available and willing to help, then ask if they can drive you to appointments or pick up your prescriptions. If you do not have family that can lend a hand, then you may have to consider hiring professional help. You can hire a caregiver to visit or live with you so they can keep an eye on things and lend a hand when necessary. Never be afraid to ask for help.
In the end, you may not feel like your old self anymore, but you can take the steps necessary to be as comfortable as possible as you deal with your illness. Create a budget, hire help if you need it, consider buying a new home, find the right health insurance, and find ways to relieve stress.