Managing the Psychological Impact of Lipoedema
The emotional impact of lipoedema can´t be described with words, just those who feel it really know what it is like. This condition affects body image, self-esteem, mental health and overall quality of life. Shame, stigma, and difficulties with emotional regulation are common, especially as the condition progresses are examples of what patients have to face. In our previous blog, you can find the description of the most reported emotional issues of lipoedema patients. For that reason, today, we´ll give you proven strategies to get lipoedema emotional impact relief, always guided by a mental health professional. Let’s have a closer look…
Emotional Impact of Lipoedema: managing strategies
Open your mind and accept
The more you get awareness and open your mind to embrace the condition with flexibility and acceptance you will have a better quality of life. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) are promising approaches that target these areas.
Mindfulness techniques
For example meditation, body scans, and deep breathing reduce stress and improve emotional regulation. These practices also enhance present-moment awareness, aiding acceptance of physical symptoms and also body image.
Social Connectedness
Your social network and mental health professionals and support groups can buffer against feelings of isolation and improve general well being.
Professional Support
While only about 22% of patients with advanced lipoedema report seeing a psychologist, nearly half of those who do find it helpful. Psychological interventions should be tailored to address body image, self-esteem, and coping with chronic illness. Seek a professional you feel comfortable with and who empathises with your condition.
Empowerment and Advocacy
Empowering individuals to challenge stigma, advocate for their needs, and access appropriate care is essential for improving both mental and physical health outcomes.
Emotional Impact of Lipoedema: Empowerment and advocacy strategies
Patient education
Understanding lipoedema’s medical basis reduces self-blame and gives the power to look for appropriate help.
Boundary-Setting
Learning to establish limits with unsupportive individuals or environments preserves emotional energy, don’t waste your time with people who don’t care about you or are not empathic, and run away from those who make you feel bad about yourself.
Managing the Psychological Impact of Lipoedema: Specialised Techniques
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps reframe negative thought patterns about body image, self esteem and more. Look for a certified CBT psychologist you feel comfortable to work with.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Addressing trauma due to severe emotional impact and stigma, reducing anxiety and improving emotional resilience, must be performed by a specialised psychiatrist.
Emotional Impact of Lipoedema: Support networks
Peer Support Groups
Reduces isolation by connecting you with other patients. You can share experiences, get advised, but also have the feeling of belonging. Over 50% of participants report improved emotional well-being.
Community Workshops
Structured programs combining mindfulness, stress management, and body acceptance exercises provide tools for daily challenges. Most of them are online.
Managing the Psychological Impact of Lipoedema: A final word
The Union of these strategies is pivotal for improving your general wellbeing. Don´t be afraid of your condition or how you feel about it, but look for a professional treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember you’re not alone and we are here to help you.
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/acceptance-and-commitment-therapy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24773095/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9829602/
https://advances.umw.edu.pl/en/article/2024/33/12/1367/
