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Sister with Lyme-Mental and Emotional Issues

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Posted 11/28/2021 8:37 PM (GMT 0)
My sister’s condition, as I noted in a recent post, is currently dire. The pain from the neuropathy she has is so severe that she can barely function.

One thing that is deeply concerning to me is the toll that this is taking on her mental health. She is suicidal, angry, and irrational at times. She still, several years after the lyme diagnosis, has trouble processing what has happened to her. I am often at a loss for how to help her cope with the anguish she is in.

Are there any mental/emotional health care resources for people with lyme? I feel like standard resources are not enough; I’m not sure that the average mental health professional understands the unique set of challenges that come with living through a severe chronic illness. It would be nice if there is material out there written by mental health professionals who have themselves been seriously ill and who have direct knowledge of what things are like.

(Because of her state, meeting with someone in person is not currently an option; this is why I’m asking for written items.)

If anyone has any helpful info, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.
Posted 11/28/2021 10:31 PM (GMT 0)
Dr. Mary Ackerley

She can do Skype consultations.

https://iseai.org/mary-ackerley-md-mdh-abihm/

Post Edited (WalkingbyFaith) : 11/28/2021 3:36:07 PM (GMT-7)

Posted 12/6/2021 7:25 PM (GMT 0)

WalkingbyFaith said...
Dr. Mary Ackerley

She can do Skype consultations.

https://iseai.org/mary-ackerley-md-mdh-abihm/

Thank you. Will look into this.
Posted 12/6/2021 8:00 PM (GMT 0)
while it would be nice if they had some personal experience of chronic severe illness i think they will be able to help even if they have not experienced it themselves. the same approaches are generally applicable.

i think it possibly matters more how well your sister connects with them - so don't be afraid to try a few if after a 2-3 sessions she doesn't feel a connection.

people who are depressed and angry are often very resistant to and impatient with therapists - so it might take some perseverance to find one that works for her - but i do think it will be worth the effort.

ref written material - i think the psychology today may have some useful general reading
ie if you search their site with "chronic illness"
https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/psychoanalysis-30/201103/the-dis-ease-chronic-medical-illness
Posted 12/6/2021 8:02 PM (GMT 0)
mak24 - How long has she been dealing with neuropathy? And it is hard for some to come to grips and understand what has happened with Lyme. That I understand. Only good news is she has been diagnosed. I believe there are still many out there who still don't know they have Lyme and are being treated for other diseases.
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