If you’ve recently had a diagnosis of a long-term condition, you are bound to experience a mix of emotions that may change from day to day.

Know that this is a completely normal part of the process of coming to terms with the news.

For this post, we’ve put together some tips and strategies to help you along the way. Once you follow them, you’ll be able to manage your diagnosis with confidence.

1. Allow yourself to experience emotions

If you’ve had a diagnosis with a serious or life-changing condition, you can expect to feel many emotions. These may range from anxiety when you first learn of your diagnosis all the way to acceptance at a later stage.

You can try some simple techniques to deal with a spectrum of changing feelings. Try checking in with yourself at an appointed time in the day to see how you are feeling. Simply naming the emotion you are experiencing can help you accept it and take some of the anxiety away.

You may also wish to get counselling to help you work through your thoughts and feelings. You can search for a registered counsellor on the ACA (Australian Counselling Association) website.

2. Gather information

Finding out as much as you can about your condition can help you feel more in control. Seek out information from trusted sources such as the Healthdirect website, which offers advice on a wide range of medical issues.

You can also try websites dedicated to your specific condition — for example, Cancer Council, Diabetes Australia or Epilepsy Action Australia.

Write down any questions you have about your condition so you can ask your doctor, nurse or other healthcare professional at your next appointment. Take a notebook and pen so you can jot down the answers. It’s also a good idea to take a friend or family member with you, who can ask on your behalf if needed.

3. Communicate your condition

Telling other people about your condition can help you feel supported. But remember, it’s up to you who you tell, when you offer this information and how much detail you go into.

When you are ready, find a quiet time and place to explain your news. You might want to think through answers to questions you may be asked. You can also think of ways the other person could help you, such as by coming with you to hospital appointments or doing shopping for you.

Many people with long-term conditions choose to wear a medical ID bracelet or necklace. This can be a conversation starter if you want to open up about your condition. It is also a valuable resource if you have a health emergency and are not able to communicate your needs. It means your caregivers can understand your medical status, so they can give you the appropriate treatment.

Know that you’ll find a wide range of pre-printed medical ID products in the Mediband online shop. You’ll see wristbands for conditions like diabetes and epilepsy. You can also have your medical wristband customised with the details of your choice. Your wristband will help give you the confidence to live life as fully as possible with a long-term health condition.

4. Take time out

Being diagnosed with a health condition is a stressful time, with a mix of emotions to deal with. This can leave you feeling tired and drained, so make sure you schedule some time out for yourself to relax.

Do whatever makes you feel happy and fulfilled. This could be as simple as enjoying a coffee with a friend or watching your favourite TV show. Or you may wish to take up a creative hobby, such as journalling, which can help you process your emotions.

You may also find comfort in linking with people who are going through a similar experience to you. Your doctor or nurse should be able to help you find a local support group for your condition, or you can join an online forum. Many people find these networks positive and uplifting.

Small steps that mean a lot

Taking even the smallest of actions can help you build positivity and confidence around your diagnosis. Taking time for yourself or sharing your worries with a friend can help you relax and reframe your mindset around your health.

You may also wish to order a medical wristband from our extensive collection — it’s a small step that can mean a lot. It can give you confidence and peace of mind as you go about your everyday life, knowing that information about your condition is available in an emergency.

Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions about our products — we’re here for you.