When people think of self-care, they sometimes think of relaxation or surface-level activities to improve their mood temporarily. Though these things are important and needed, there are deeper levels to self-care. These levels can have a lasting impact on your overall health and the ways you take care of yourself. This is the first part of our four part series on the different components of self-care. First, we are starting with Medical Self-Care.
Medical Self-Care
The World Health Organization defines self-care as the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote their own health, prevent disease, maintain health, and to cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health worker.
When we consider medical self-care, we consider that definition. We also consider how an individual can continue to prevent illness when emotional distress such as anxiety, depression, or grief is involved.
The Mind-Body Connection
There is overwhelming evidence that the mind and body are connected. Emotional distress shows itself throughout the body in different ways depending on our seasons of life. When someone is depressed and does not feel like doing anything, different parts of medical self-care can be missed. Not going through a hygiene routine, not doing our hair, and not brushing our teeth are all things that can lead to more bodily issues that manifest from the state of our mental health. Keeping up with dental care and physical care can help with overall mood but it can also help to prevent other issues down the road.
Common Medical Health Myths
MYTH: You will be mocked for being scared of the doctor
A common myth people believe is that your doctor will mock or ridicule you if you’re afraid. That is untrue. While there may be a small percentage of doctors who act like this, the majority want you to feel comfortable during your visits. It is okay to be nervous and to be concerned about what the doctor will say during your visit. Doctors are not there to judge, they are there to offer guidance and professional opinion. They are also there to help you on your health journey.
MYTH: Your Doctor will share personal information with others without your consent
Another myth is fearing your Doctor will share your medical information with other providers or with people in your family without your permission. Doctors will only share information if they have to and are given permission by you. In the case that information needs to be shared, you will receive a release form so they have your consent before any personal information is shared.
MYTH: Doctors make up issues to take your money
Lastly, another fear is that doctors will make up issues to take your money. This is a valid fear but it is not true. If this is your concern, ask the doctor to walk you through how they have gotten to their findings and diagnosis. If they are showing x-rays and making a diagnosis from that, take a look and ask questions. Always remember, you’re in control of your health and you have the right to understand completely what is going on with your body.
Medical Self-Care Strategies
The first step is acknowledging you need to go to the doctor or you’re overdue for an annual appointment. If you are experiencing anxiety about an appointment, reach out to someone you trust to go with you. They may not be able to go into the room with you but they can ride with you to the visit and stay in the waiting room if necessary. Ask your medical team questions about the process or certain things that you are going to experience at your visit. This can help you feel more comfortable going forward and remind you that you are in control of your care.
Consider the time of day you choose to go. If you are feeling distressed, schedule a morning appointment. Getting there first thing in the morning helps ease the anxiety that would have otherwise been carried throughout the day. Some other strategies can include incorporating deep breathing, listening to music or calming sounds, and other ways you relieve stress on a daily basis.
Do not wait until your doctor’s appointments before you check in with yourself. Regularly examine your body on your own and keep track of any changes you experience. You are the expert of your own body.