It is uncertain how people will react when they are diagnosed with Epstein Barr virus, especially if it becomes chronic. Some people get depressed whilst others remain positive and hopeful. In fact, some people find that Epstein Barr helps them grow emotionally, making them stronger, more tolerant, and more understanding.
So what makes one person sink into despair whilst another with the same condition adapts and remains positive and proactive?
Well, a team of psychologists from the Netherlands set out to find out. These are the areas they found that make a difference when dealing with a chronic illness like Epstein Barr:
The first thing is expressing your emotions. It's important to talk openly and acknowledge your condition, rather than pretend it doesn't exist. People who communicate their feelings tend to need less treatment, report fewer symptoms and retain more independence and physical function.
The next thing to do is to take control. The more actively people manage their illness themselves, the better they do. Setting goals like what you'll eat, how you'll keep fit, how you'll manage your stress, what supplements to take etc is far better than passively accepting whatever treatment is given out to you.
The next step is to think positively. Changing the way you think about your life can also help you adapt to an illness. Developing an improved appreciation of life - stopping to smell the roses can help keep your spirits up and help you cope.
Another key finding was the importance of keeping active. Physical activity makes a big difference in lifting your mood and helping you cope. In chronic cases of glandular fever it is important to tailor a gentle exercise program to your individual ability.
Find laughter, joy and fun. Some of the simplest, but most powerful secrets that I have found lift your mood and help you cope with illness, is laughter, joy and fun. You need to find ways to bring them into your life.
When I was ill with glandular fever, my list included having a hot bath every night, getting an afternoon nap, and making sure I had plenty of funny videos and good books to read.
There should be many things in your life that you truly love and enjoy. Please make sure you are doing them!
Elizabeth Noble, BSc. Dip Nat Ther. is a Naturopath and former Epstein Barr sufferer. Her Epstein Barr e-book, blog, and podcasts are available from EBV Cures. Also, be sure to visit her Self Growth Expert Page.