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Writer's pictureSuzanne Warren
Oct 2, 20233 min read

Top 10 things that help me get through the day when you live with a long-term health condition




The challenges of daily living — completing simple tasks — staying motivated and protecting mental health are all key factors in the management of a chronic condition. The following will support this and make the day seem a little easier:

  1. Regular medication times

Having a routine will not only ensure you take your medication on time but also that you take it as recommended. Check if it should be with food for example. If you have pituitary insufficiency or Addison’s disease then taking your morning cortisol before you actually need it so it has time to work could make a big impact on your day. Important to take your medication on time gives the key benefits.


2. Good hydration

Drinking water first thing in the morning is especially important. Your body has been without fluid all night long! So even if you have the need for caffeine try and have some water as well. These NHS guidelines explain in more detail.


3. Healthy food

Good healthy diets don’t have to be bland or boring. You can get so much flavour and enjoyment from food that is both nutritious and healthy. Aim to include a rainbow of fruit and vegetables in your daily diet. Drink some juice or a smoothie each day and of course, enjoy a treat every now and then — we need fats and salt in our diets as well. Enjoy colourful foods from The British Heart Foundation explains what each rainbow colour does for nutrition in our bodies.


4. Getting good quality sleep

Sleep will affect our ability to function — our mood and our fatigue levels. Having a good sleep management plan can help — regular bedtimes with some calming activities — perhaps a warm drink and a snack with some melatonin like grapes and kiwi or a glass of tart cherry juice could all be helpful. The Mayo Clinic, a popular US hospital has comprised six top tips for getting good sleep.


5. Movement

Exercise is important to everyone and that includes those with health conditions. The release of endorphins will help with mood and it’s still important to do something each day. Physiotherapy may be required and that should be the priority. After that find something that you enjoy — whether that’s a leisurely stroll in your local park or an exercise class online or at your local leisure centre. My Living Well offers specific advice on moving with long-term health conditions.


6. Self-Care

Looking after yourself is the key to helping others. Something as small as massaging your favourite hand cream before bed or using your favourite perfume could be classified as self-care. Treating yourself to a haircut or even painting your nails would work well. Good Housekeeping has fifty ideas to get you started.


7. Nature

The outside world has so much to offer — calmness — tranquillity — the ability to reach our senses — to provide an escape. Whether it's a few minutes out in the garden or a trek through a nature reserve there are many benefits to getting out and enjoying the natural world. Mental Health Charity Mind have some everyday tips for getting out in nature.


8. Relaxation

A crucial part of life and comes in many forms depending on your personal preference. This is something that is very individual. Yoga or meditation may be the answer for some but horrify others. Women's Health Matters explores a variety of options that are easy to implement.


9. Visualisation

On days when you cannot manage your favourite activity or there is no time taking just a minute to visualise that activity can be just as beneficial. Take a moment and find somewhere quiet. Close your eyes and picture the scene — think about those senses and imagine yourself where you feel happy and relaxed. Positive Psychology guides you through three different types of visualisation.


10. Connectivity

Use your support network — whether that’s in person, online or over the phone. Technology gives us so many more options. Support groups are a great option. FaceTime allows access to those who may live a long way away. Even switching on the radio or TV can help give some comfort and company. NHS programme Every Mind Matters looks at ways to stay connected.


Whatever you try — however hard it is — always remember you are not alone — someone is always there — there’s always some hope to cling onto. Something to cherish each day and something to fight for. Happiness can come from simplicity not just extravagance.











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