{"id":18752,"date":"2021-06-10T14:41:09","date_gmt":"2021-06-10T04:41:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?page_id=18752"},"modified":"2021-07-07T09:52:05","modified_gmt":"2021-07-06T23:52:05","slug":"adapting-to-change","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/mental-health\/adapting-to-change\/","title":{"rendered":"Adapting to change"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":85,"featured_media":19260,"parent":10397,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-18752","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\nAdapting to change - Lung Foundation Australia<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/mental-health\/adapting-to-change\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Adapting to change - 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A diagnosis or progression of lung disease or lung cancer may cause changes to different aspects of your life. A normal reaction might be to resist or try to fight change. However, this may only work for a time and eventually you may have to face changes in relationships, your physical ability and daily activities.","link":""},{"acf_fc_layout":"column_content","columns":[{"column_type":"text","heading_text":"Change and control","paragraph_text":"<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Adapting to change can be tricky, especially if the change happens quickly or with little warning. Working towards accepting the things you can\u2019t change and concentrating on the things you can influence may help to increase your feelings of being more in control.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Good and bad days<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Life never stays the same from one day to the next, this is true for everyone. We all have\u00a0\u2018good days\u2019\u00a0and\u00a0\u2018bad\u00a0days\u2019. Giving\u00a0yourself\u00a0permission to not always feel on top of everything is a good way to work towards accepting what\u00a0you\u00a0can\u2019t\u00a0change. A simple strategy to help when\u00a0you\u00a0are\u00a0having bad days\u00a0is to use language that allows for change and possibilities.\u00a0Instead of saying to yourself and others that you are having a \u201cbad day\u201d, maybe try \u201cI\u2019m feeling flat and low in energy\u00a0this afternoon\u201d.\u00a0Building\u00a0\u2018wriggle room\u2019\u00a0into self-talk\u00a0opens the\u00a0possibility\u00a0for\u00a0you\u00a0to feel different later. Language and thoughts are powerful contributors to emotions.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","button_display_setting":false,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":null,"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":false,"youtube_video_url":""},{"column_type":"image","heading_text":"","paragraph_text":"","button_display_setting":false,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":null,"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":{"ID":18753,"id":18753,"title":"Portrait of pensive or sad young woman sitting at sidewalk cafe","filename":"iStock-1143630967-scaled.jpg","filesize":467445,"url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-scaled.jpg","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/mental-health\/adapting-to-change\/portrait-of-pensive-or-sad-young-woman-sitting-at-sidewalk-cafe\/","alt":"","author":"85","description":"","caption":"Portrait of pensive or sad young woman sitting at sidewalk cafe. Latin American student or businesswoman contemplating outdoors. Student lifestyle concept","name":"portrait-of-pensive-or-sad-young-woman-sitting-at-sidewalk-cafe","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":18752,"date":"2021-06-10 04:36:29","modified":"2021-06-10 04:36:29","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":2560,"height":1707,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-300x200.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":200,"medium_large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-768x512.jpg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":512,"large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-1024x683.jpg","large-width":1024,"large-height":683,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-1536x1024.jpg","1536x1536-width":1536,"1536x1536-height":1024,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-2048x1365.jpg","2048x2048-width":2048,"2048x2048-height":1365,"xxlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-1920x1280.jpg","xxlarge-width":1920,"xxlarge-height":1280,"xlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-1280x853.jpg","xlarge-width":1280,"xlarge-height":853,"header-navigation":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-480x1080.jpg","header-navigation-width":480,"header-navigation-height":1080,"link-category":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-380x256.jpg","link-category-width":380,"link-category-height":256,"card":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-450x450.jpg","card-width":450,"card-height":450,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":200,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":267,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1143630967-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":400}},"youtube_video_url":""}]},{"acf_fc_layout":"wysiwyg_content_area","heading":"","content":"<h3>Control in uncontrollable circumstances<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">When there is uncertainty and change occurring in our lives, the temptation is to try to stay in control. However, the more control you try to have over a situation, the less control you actually have. Trying to control a situation or other people mean you need to put in more rules and become more rigid in your thoughts and behaviours. Unfortunately, situations and other people don\u2019t necessarily play by the same rules. This can make you feel more out of control, requiring further rules and behaviours, creating a vicious cycle which can ultimately lead to psychological distress.<\/span><\/p>\n","link":""},{"acf_fc_layout":"column_content","columns":[{"column_type":"text","heading_text":"New normal","paragraph_text":"<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-AU\" xml:lang=\"EN-AU\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">Looking back with regret\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">or<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0longing<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0is<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">something many people experience as they\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">adapt to the changes happen<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">ing<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0to\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">their<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0body<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">This is a natural part of grieving the life that you have\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u2018<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">lost<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u2019<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">.\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">Thinking about these changes as your\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u2018<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">new normal<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u2019<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">is a<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0gentler<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0way to help your brain adjust<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0to these physical changes<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">. Focusing on what you\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">can\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">still do<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">,<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">rather than<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0what you<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">can\u2019t<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">do<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">,<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW186003534 BCX0\">will help you to feel like you still have capacity to do things.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW186003534 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","button_display_setting":false,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":null,"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":{"ID":18754,"id":18754,"title":"Asian elderly couple holding their hands while taking together in living room, couple feeling happy share and support each other lying on sofa at home. Lifestyle Senior family at home concept.","filename":"iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","filesize":421861,"url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/mental-health\/adapting-to-change\/asian-elderly-couple-holding-their-hands-while-taking-together-in-living-room-couple-feeling-happy-share-and-support-each-other-lying-on-sofa-at-home-lifestyle-senior-family-at-home-concept\/","alt":"","author":"85","description":"","caption":"Asian elderly couple holding their hands while taking together in living room, couple feeling happy share and support each other lying on sofa at home. Lifestyle Senior family at home concept.","name":"asian-elderly-couple-holding-their-hands-while-taking-together-in-living-room-couple-feeling-happy-share-and-support-each-other-lying-on-sofa-at-home-lifestyle-senior-family-at-home-concept","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":18752,"date":"2021-06-10 04:40:34","modified":"2021-06-10 04:40:34","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":2560,"height":1709,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-300x200.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":200,"medium_large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-768x513.jpg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":513,"large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-1024x684.jpg","large-width":1024,"large-height":684,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-1536x1025.jpg","1536x1536-width":1536,"1536x1536-height":1025,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-2048x1367.jpg","2048x2048-width":2048,"2048x2048-height":1367,"xxlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-1920x1282.jpg","xxlarge-width":1920,"xxlarge-height":1282,"xlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-1280x854.jpg","xlarge-width":1280,"xlarge-height":854,"header-navigation":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-480x1080.jpg","header-navigation-width":480,"header-navigation-height":1080,"link-category":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-380x256.jpg","link-category-width":380,"link-category-height":256,"card":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-450x450.jpg","card-width":450,"card-height":450,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":200,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":267,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":401}},"youtube_video_url":""},{"column_type":"text","heading_text":" Preparing for tests and scans","paragraph_text":"<p>The lead\u2013up to tests, scans or appointments with your specialist doctor or GP can be full of trepidation and anxiety. It is normal to experience feelings of worry, fear or apprehension. Telling yourself that experiencing a range of emotions is to be expected leading up to an appointment, scan or test can help you to feel more in control of those feelings.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Read more about preparing for appointments ","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/news\/preparing-for-medical-appointments\/","target":"_blank"},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":false,"youtube_video_url":""}]},{"acf_fc_layout":"column_content","columns":[{"column_type":"image","heading_text":"","paragraph_text":"","button_display_setting":false,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":null,"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":{"ID":18754,"id":18754,"title":"Asian elderly couple holding their hands while taking together in living room, couple feeling happy share and support each other lying on sofa at home. Lifestyle Senior family at home concept.","filename":"iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","filesize":421861,"url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/mental-health\/adapting-to-change\/asian-elderly-couple-holding-their-hands-while-taking-together-in-living-room-couple-feeling-happy-share-and-support-each-other-lying-on-sofa-at-home-lifestyle-senior-family-at-home-concept\/","alt":"","author":"85","description":"","caption":"Asian elderly couple holding their hands while taking together in living room, couple feeling happy share and support each other lying on sofa at home. Lifestyle Senior family at home concept.","name":"asian-elderly-couple-holding-their-hands-while-taking-together-in-living-room-couple-feeling-happy-share-and-support-each-other-lying-on-sofa-at-home-lifestyle-senior-family-at-home-concept","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":18752,"date":"2021-06-10 04:40:34","modified":"2021-06-10 04:40:34","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":2560,"height":1709,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-300x200.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":200,"medium_large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-768x513.jpg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":513,"large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-1024x684.jpg","large-width":1024,"large-height":684,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-1536x1025.jpg","1536x1536-width":1536,"1536x1536-height":1025,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-2048x1367.jpg","2048x2048-width":2048,"2048x2048-height":1367,"xxlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-1920x1282.jpg","xxlarge-width":1920,"xxlarge-height":1282,"xlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-1280x854.jpg","xlarge-width":1280,"xlarge-height":854,"header-navigation":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-480x1080.jpg","header-navigation-width":480,"header-navigation-height":1080,"link-category":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-380x256.jpg","link-category-width":380,"link-category-height":256,"card":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-450x450.jpg","card-width":450,"card-height":450,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":200,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":267,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1147273134-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":401}},"youtube_video_url":""},{"column_type":"text","heading_text":" Adapting to living with a life-limiting condition","paragraph_text":"<p>Some lung conditions can result in a shortened lifespan. Generally, your specialist doctor will discuss this with you when you\u2019re diagnosed or shortly after. Adapting to a life-limiting condition will be difficult for you, your family and friends. Talking to your loved ones about this can be challenging, however a shared understanding can bring a sense of peace and relieve stress and worry about what the other is thinking and feeling.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Read our tips for living with a life-limiting condition","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/news\/living-with-a-life-limiting-lung-condition\/","target":"_blank"},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":false,"youtube_video_url":""}]},{"acf_fc_layout":"wysiwyg_content_area","heading":"","content":"<h3><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW58811013\" lang=\"EN-AU\" xml:lang=\"EN-AU\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW58811013\">Dealing with progression<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-AU\" xml:lang=\"EN-AU\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">Most lung diseases will progress over time. For some\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">people<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">\u00a0the progression is quite rapid<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">;\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">for others<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">,<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">\u00a0their\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">health and functionality may<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">change\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">slowly. Progression depends on many things and is often unpredictable.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">Having a good understanding of your disease and what you might expect can help you to manage\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">these changes<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31875434 BCX0\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>\u201cYou can really feel powerless when your condition worsens and then you can feel angry. It can really impact your mental health.\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 Anonymous, living with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Another important aspect of progression is early detection.\u00a0Leaning to recognise\u00a0when your symptoms\u00a0change\u00a0or\u00a0flare-up\u00a0is\u00a0critical to\u00a0managing your condition.\u00a0If your\u00a0symptoms are changing or worsening, it is\u00a0not\u00a0a time to\u00a0\u201cbe strong\u201d\u00a0and\u00a0\u201ctough it out\u201d.\u00a0Do not wait to discuss changes in symptoms with your treating healthcare team.\u00a0Early intervention can make a big difference.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Mentally preparing for your lung function to decline and change is also important. Think about how you might modify\u00a0your daily activities\u00a0to accommodate a decline in physical capacity.\u00a0You may need to consider pacing your activities as your disease progresses.\u00a0For example, if you love\u00a0spending all day\u00a0gardening,\u00a0you might\u00a0need to\u00a0spend\u00a0only an hour or two\u00a0and\u00a0then\u00a0allow for rest time.\u00a0Pushing through when your disease has progressed usually results in high levels of fatigue. If you allow yourself to pace your activities, you\u00a0will\u00a0still\u00a0be able to participate in the\u00a0things that are important to you.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","link":""},{"acf_fc_layout":"lead_in_text","heading":"Print resources","copy":"Complete the form below to receive these resources as printable PDFs.","link":""},{"acf_fc_layout":"form","heading":"","text":"","form":13},{"acf_fc_layout":"wysiwyg_content_area","heading":"","content":"<p>Mind Matters was part funded by a COVID Response Grant from MSD.<\/p>\n","link":""},{"acf_fc_layout":"featured_posts_static","heading":"Resources","view_more_link":"","posts":[{"ID":19078,"post_author":"85","post_date":"2021-01-14 13:28:00","post_date_gmt":"2021-01-14 03:28:00","post_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>It is not unusual to experience \u2018big feelings\u2019 or 'big emotions' when living with a lung condition. Many people experience higher than usual levels of anger, sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, irritability, frustration, stress and impatience. Noticing that you might not be as calm as you once were, is another normal reaction to living with a lung condition.  <\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>These big feelings might become more evident when you are tired, sick or worried about something like going to a specialist appointment or receiving test results. If you notice you are experiencing higher than usual levels of negative emotions, this is a good time to talk to someone about how you are going. Your GP might be a good place to start and you may be able to get a referral to see a mental health professional. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:quote -->\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p>\"<em>You need to give the mental health professionals time and capacity to help you.  Just give it a chance.<\/em>\"<\/p><cite>Anonymous, living with a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. <\/cite><\/blockquote>\n<!-- \/wp:quote -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Tips for when you feel overwhelmed  <\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In general, when your brain is feeling overwhelmed, you are more likely to notice that your patience is reduced, you may be more likely to snap at people around you and feel higher levels of hopelessness and frustration.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p> One strategy to assist with these times is to acknowledge that you are feeling \u201cout of sorts\u201d. Let your mind be curious about what it is you are actually feeling. What is your self-talk saying to you? Write it down, as it can help with organising your thoughts. It might be that you are feeling overwhelmed by all your appointments, or maybe work is particularly busy, or you are wondering how you are going to afford medication or the house modifications you might need.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Look at the things you have written down and make a list of those you can do something about, and another for what is \u2018out of your control\u2019. Take one thing off the list you can do something about and get started on it; this action will help you feel more in control and should help to reduce some of the stress you feel.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:media-text {\"mediaPosition\":\"right\",\"mediaId\":19079,\"mediaLink\":\"https:\\\/\\\/lungfoundation.com.au\\\/?attachment_id=19079\",\"mediaType\":\"image\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1193778650-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Father and son discussing big feelings over a cup of tea. \" class=\"wp-image-19079 size-full\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"><!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Another thing you can do is to tell your partner, family or trusted friends that you are feeling overwhelmed. When they know you are struggling, they will be less likely to take offence if you are snappy towards them. Talking to trusted people about how you feel helps them feel more connected to you, and you to them. It is OK to tell them you don\u2019t need them to fix anything, that you just want them to listen. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/div><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:media-text -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>What if I just feel numb? <\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Another way people can react to the impact of living with lung cancer or a lung disease, especially one that is life-limiting or significantly changes your lifestyle, is to feel nothing but numb. You might feel as if you are wading through molasses; people, things and even sound feel slightly muffled and removed. You might feel heavy and as if your reactions are slowed, and you just can\u2019t find the energy to smile or talk. Other people feel like they are on auto-pilot; they can feel themselves going through the motions but don\u2019t feel connected to the experience.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:quote -->\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p>\"<em>At the time of diagnosis, I tried to be tough for everyone because your family falls to pieces. You just become numb and run on autopilot.<\/em>\"<\/p><cite>- Anonymous, living with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. <\/cite><\/blockquote>\n<!-- \/wp:quote -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>This feeling of numbness or being on autopilot are aspects of dissociation. It is the brain\u2019s way of trying to protect you from feeling too much and is quite normal in certain circumstances. If you get these feelings, rest assured that you are not going crazy. However, if these feelings persist beyond a short period of time or begin to impact you in one or more domains of your life, you should seek assistance from a mental health professional.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Learning to \u2018sit with your emotions\u2019 <\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When we get upset, it is natural to try to push that feeling away. Generally, this strategy is not very effective. Instead, a good way to manage difficult emotions is to simply let them sit there for a while, eventually the emotion will change into another one, and a bit later change again.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Emotions are a bit like the weather; they change throughout any given day, depending on what we do and what happens around us. Learning to let emotions just sit with us and not actually trying to do anything about them can be a huge relief. When we open up to this possibility, we free ourselves to do other things. Sometimes we can help ourselves to change distressing emotions to something more positive by doing something we enjoy, something that normally gives us pleasure.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p> By reminding ourselves of the things we like doing, the things we are grateful for and the things that make our heart sing, we provide ourselves with opportunities to feel positive emotions and when we feel positive emotions, we are more able to feel optimistic and hopeful. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You may wish to view our Mindfulness and Self-compassion guided practices, which can help to increase your ability to be present and flexible in our responses to life\u2019s joys and challenges.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Are you looking for more information about caring for your mental health and wellbeing?<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:buttons {\"contentJustification\":\"center\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center\"><!-- wp:button -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/mental-health\/\">Visit our Mind Matters Information Hub<\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:button --><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:buttons -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","post_title":"Living with big feelings","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"what-are-big-feelings","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2021-06-29 09:58:14","post_modified_gmt":"2021-06-28 23:58:14","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=article&p=19078","menu_order":0,"post_type":"article","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":19130,"post_author":"85","post_date":"2021-05-03 10:34:00","post_date_gmt":"2021-05-03 00:34:00","post_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Looking after yourself as a carer to guard against burnout is extremely important. When you are caring for a loved one, you may lose sight of the need for, and benefits of, self-care to maintain your own emotional and physical wellbeing. It can be difficult to find time to prioritise your own wellbeing and even when you do take time for yourself, you may still feel guilty. Self-care is not selfish but an essential thing that all carers need to do. Remind yourself that this time away from your loved one will help you to avoid burnout and to return to your carer role with renewed vigour and energy. <\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you do struggle with feelings of guilt, try to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/playlist?list=PLx5RMZtuxzUS6XD6r-jf6kcB5X2vRf6Uc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">practice mindfulness<\/a> on that emotion, let it sit there for a while, then let it pass.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4> Some ways you can practise self-care: <\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><li>Find someone to talk to, a friend, support group or mental health professional <\/li><li>As much as possible, maintain daily routines<\/li><li>Try to eat healthy food <\/li><li>Allow yourself time to rest  <\/li><li>Get some exercise, even if just a walk around the block <\/li><li>Have a regular bedtime and wake-up time <\/li><li>Book regular appointments with your GP, dentist, hairdresser and other services that help you to stay healthy and feel good <\/li><li>Ask for help from family, friends, support services <\/li><li>Allow yourself to have \u2018good days\u2019 and \u2018bad days\u2019, \u2018good moments\u2019 and \u2018bad moments\u2019 <\/li><li>Accept that there will be times when you feel angry, frustrated and upset. This is normal and does not mean you are a bad person or carer <\/li><li>Get advice on what is realistic for you to achieve  <\/li><li>Make time for hobbies and interests that make you feel good <\/li><li>Ask friends to come around for a chat and visit them <\/li><li>Make a list of things that you can do when you feel a bit flat and low. <\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:quote -->\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><strong>\"<em>You can become very overloaded and I have had trouble even reading a newspaper. It is important to undertake restorative activities like yoga or meditation. Doing exercise also helps my mental health. It helps me stay in the moment.\"<\/em><\/strong><\/p><cite>- Anonymous, parent-carer for someone living with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. <\/cite><\/blockquote>\n<!-- \/wp:quote -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Recognising carer burnout <\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:media-text {\"mediaId\":19131,\"mediaLink\":\"https:\\\/\\\/lungfoundation.com.au\\\/?attachment_id=19131\",\"mediaType\":\"image\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/iStock-1157317608-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A carer relaxing with a cup of tea as a strategy to combat carer burnout. \" class=\"wp-image-19131 size-full\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"><!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Every caregiver still needs to make time to do things for themselves. Caregivers still need to go to their own appointments, get a haircut, catch up with friends, go shopping, pursue a hobby, have time to bathe, do household chores and just relax with a good book or TV show. Caring for someone who is unwell can eat into your available time to do the things you need to do for yourself, including relaxing and resting. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/div><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:media-text -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you don\u2019t find time to pursue these things, or repeatedly put them off, you will eventually be at risk of caregiver burnout. Burnout is a very real dilemma for many carers, especially if they have been in a caring role for a long time or there has been an intense period of caring and worry.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:quote -->\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><em><strong>\"I realised there was no use trying to be<\/strong><\/em><strong><em> mighty woman<\/em>.\" <\/strong><\/p><cite>-Anonymous, carer for someone living with bronchiectasis. <\/cite><\/blockquote>\n<!-- \/wp:quote -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Signs of carer burnout <\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Burnout is generally described as a \u2018state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion\u2019. Looking out for the early signs is essential, as it is easier to get back to your \u2018normal self\u2019 if you recognise it and intervene early. Let other people you are close with know the signs, as sometimes caregivers are the last person to notice or acknowledge that they are not feeling good.  Signs and symptoms of caregiver burnout may include: <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><li>Changes to sleep <\/li><li>Irritability <\/li><li>Feeling like you can\u2019t concentrate <\/li><li>Withdrawing from family, friends and social activities  <\/li><li>Losing interest in things that you once found enjoyable <\/li><li>Change in appetite, weight or both <\/li><li>Feeling flat and low <\/li><li>Teary <\/li><li>Mood swings <\/li><li>Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness <\/li><li>Lack of energy or feeling exhausted <\/li><li>Experiencing suicidal thoughts <\/li><li>Having thoughts that you want to hurt the person you are caring for. <\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you are experiencing all or some of these, you should talk to a mental health professional about the fact that you might be experiencing carer burnout. You can recover and prevent it with support and self-care routines.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Respite <\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>More formal respite care might not be necessary for everyone but for some, it will be essential. Respite can come in many forms and each state and territory will have different options and processes. Talking to your GP, respiratory team and\/or local hospital is a good place to start finding out what might be available and suitable.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Formal respite care can allow the carer to undertake some essential self-care, firm in the knowledge that their loved one is also well cared for. Some respite can be done in home for a few hours at a time while other respite might be for longer periods in assisted care facilities.   <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Making time for yourself is what gives you the capacity to carry on caring. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Are you looking for more information about caring for your mental health and wellbeing?<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:buttons {\"contentJustification\":\"center\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center\"><!-- wp:button -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/mental-health\/\">Visit our Mind Matters Information Hub<\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:button --><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:buttons -->","post_title":"Avoiding carer burnout","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"avoiding-carer-burnout","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2021-06-29 10:07:24","post_modified_gmt":"2021-06-29 00:07:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=article&p=19130","menu_order":0,"post_type":"article","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":19206,"post_author":"85","post_date":"2021-06-15 14:24:17","post_date_gmt":"2021-06-15 04:24:17","post_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Join Lung Foundation Australia for episode three of our Living with Lung Cancer podcast series. In our third episode we are joined by Nicole Parkinson, Lung Foundation Australia\u2019s Lung Cancer Support Nurse as well as Terri Byrne (Lung Cancer patient) to learn about struggles, mental health and coping. In this episode Terri will share her experiences living with lung cancer, the impact it made on her mental health and how she accessed support. Nicole will discuss what support is out there and how to access it.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you would like information, support or to speak to our Lung Cancer Support Nurse you can contact our <a href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/support-services\/support\/\">Information and Support Centre<\/a> on <a href=\"tel:1800654301\">1800 654 301<\/a> or fill out our form <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tfaforms.com\/4810353\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","post_title":"Living with Lung Cancer: Struggles, mental health & coping","post_excerpt":"Join Lung Foundation Australia's Lung Cancer Support Nurse, Nicole Parkison and Lung cancer patient Terri Byrne as they discuss struggles, mental health and coping in lung cancer.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"living-with-lung-cancer-struggles-mental-health-coping","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2021-08-09 16:16:37","post_modified_gmt":"2021-08-09 06:16:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=resource&p=19206","menu_order":0,"post_type":"resource","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}]}],"subtitle":"Mind Matters","disable_header_overlay":false},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/18752","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/85"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18752"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/18752\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20385,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/18752\/revisions\/20385"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/10397"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19260"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18752"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}