The Psychologists’ Role in Helping Sufferers of Hepatitis C
It is normal for people to feel sad, anxious and depressed the moment they heard the bad news from their doctor. But for people who are suffering from hepatitis C, the emotional impact can be greatly tormenting and long lasting. With psychotherapy however, coping with these effects can be smooth and sustainable.
The Psychological Effects of Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a type of degenerative disease. In England, it is estimated that there are approximately 200,000 people chronically infected and that the majority of these are unaware of their infection. This disease comes from a blood-borne virus that causes damage on the cells of the liver. As the virus continues to dominate, the liver becomes inflamed, and starts malfunctioning. People with hepatitis C experience a wide range of physical symptoms. And if it’s not cured, this condition may lead to cancer or cirrhosis.
But other than the physical effects, people with hepatitis C also suffer from psychological outrage. Many patients feel a sense of helplessness the moment they found out about their condition. Others tend to be afraid, constantly worrying of what may happen to them. Others experience hopelessness because of the massive lifestyle changes that they expect to take place.
Furthermore, sufferers of hepatitis C may also suffer from depression. This mental condition develops as the feeling of sadness continues to overwhelm them. Symptoms of depression include feeling of worthlessness and guilt, sleeping disorders, fatigue, and lack of focus. Depressed people have suicidal tendencies.
Doctors usually prescribe a new lifestyle program for people with hepatitis C. And taking away old habits and building new ones can be totally stressful. For instance, a person who is a habitual drinker but was diagnosed with hepatitis C may find it real hard to draw away from alcohol. Too much stress can aggravate their condition and could lead to some other health problems.
Some of the psychological effects of hepatitis are also attributed to the use of medications. There are prescription drugs that make patients feel more depressed.
Role of Psychologists in the Treatment of Hepatitis C
Although psychologists aren’t the frontline doctors who are going to take away the virus from the patient’s body, their role is highly significant in the overall treatment program and recovery of sufferers. On the paper published by Donna M. Evon of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University Of North Carolina School Of Medicine, she explained the importance of psychotherapy in the treatment of the said disease. According to Evon, most sufferers don’t follow their medical regimen because it’s in conflict with their psychological issues such as substance abuse. With a psychologist standing right behind the patient, coping with the changes and dealing with the disease becomes easier. Psychologists can also help patients understand and accept their situation and sustain the hope to fight the disease. Furthermore, they can help patients deal with the effects of medication, as well as the discrimination surrounding them.
Evon believes that in order to achieve optimal results, psychologists should proactively involve in the overall treatment program, and must work with closely with hepatologists and gastroenterologists.