Living with a Long term health condition (LTHC) can be challenging at the best of times — add in dark mornings — dark nights — cold days — additional stress on the body and these can have a significant impact on mental health and well-being.
Through two blogs The Pituitary Foundation looks to support its patients through this challenging time. The first highlights lowered mood in those with pituitary conditions. Written by psychologist Sue Jackson, who is well known for her advice and support to members.
She explores the stigma attached to being told depression is the cause — looking at the overlap with Chronic Fatigue and brain fog. Assesses symptoms such as grief, loss, and sadness. Demoralisation is recognised for those experiencing a change in their social role.
Jackson concludes by highlighting two symptoms not to ignore — feeling sad, blue or empty most of the time and no longer enjoying things that used to give pleasure. This coupled with a comprehensive list of other symptoms informs us as to when external help and support may be required.
Read the full article — Lowered mood with Pituitary Conditions here: https://www.pituitary.org.uk/news/2021/10/lowered-mood-with-pituitary-conditions/
As part of their winter well-being campaign, this blog simply looks at self-care techniques — more specifically:
Smiling - bringing out those happy chemicals even if you aren’t in a smiling mood
Being your own best friend — give yourself some positive self-talk
Rituals — daily routines can really help
Look out for future blogs in this series!
Read the full article Well-being Tips here: https://www.pituitary.org.uk/news/2023/01/wellbeing-tips/