This week marks Mental Health Week in Canada—a time to pause and check in with how you’re really feeling. If you’ve been diagnosed with liver disease, it’s completely natural to experience a wide range of emotions. Any health journey can feel overwhelming, but your mental health deserves just as much care as your physical health.
To highlight the connection between emotional wellbeing and chronic illness, we spoke with Ilda Caeiro-Azzam, a registered social worker and psychotherapist with more than two decades of experience in trauma-informed care, chronic illness, and rehabilitation. Ilda shared thoughtful insights on the emotional impact of a liver disease diagnosis and offered practical strategies for coping and support.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with liver disease for some time, you’re not alone. There are resources, communities, and professionals ready to support your emotional wellbeing—because feeling good mentally is a key part of living well physically.
👉 Keep reading to explore this meaningful conversation—and discover tools to support the important connection between your physical and mental wellbeing.
Liver Canada: How can being diagnosed with a chronic condition such as liver disease impact a person emotionally and mentally?
Ilda: Being diagnosed with a chronic illness such as liver disease can trigger a range of emotional and mental health challenges. Patients often experience feelings of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty about their future. The stress of managing a chronic condition can lead to emotional distress, such as depression, frustration, and a sense of loss regarding their previous lifestyle and physical capabilities. Additionally, there can be a sense of isolation, particularly if the condition affects daily functioning or social interactions. The mental strain of dealing with symptoms, treatment protocols, and the unknowns of disease progression can be overwhelming, and patients may experience a loss of self-esteem or identity as they adjust to their new reality.
Liver Canada: What advice would you give to patients who feel overwhelmed about managing their chronic liver disease?
Ilda: It’s essential to acknowledge that feeling overwhelmed is a natural response to the complexities of managing a chronic condition. I recommend that patients start by breaking down their treatment plan into manageable steps. Establishing a strong support system, including family, friends, healthcare providers, and support groups, can provide a sense of community and reassurance. Education is key—understanding their condition and treatment options empowers patients to take control of their health. It’s also important to be kind to oneself, recognizing that it’s okay to have good and bad days. Seeking professional counseling or therapy can be invaluable in helping to navigate the emotional toll of chronic illness and ensure that patients don’t feel alone in their journey.
Liver Canada: What are some coping strategies for patients dealing with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with a liver disease diagnosis?
Ilda: Coping strategies for managing the emotional and psychological challenges of chronic illness include mindfulness practices, which can help reduce stress and anxiety by encouraging patients to stay present rather than ruminate on the future. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in helping individuals reframe negative thoughts and develop more positive coping mechanisms. Patients may also find solace in peer support groups, where they can share experiences with others who understand their struggles.
It is also beneficial for patients to maintain a routine, as structure can bring a sense of normalcy and control. Regular physical activity, as recommended by their healthcare provider, can also improve mood and alleviate stress. Finally, keeping a journal of their emotions and progress can help patients track their mental health and celebrate small victories.
Liver Canada: How can patients maintain a good quality of life despite their diagnosis, especially if their condition is progressive?
Ilda: Maintaining a good quality of life, even in the face of a progressive condition like liver disease, involves focusing on what can be controlled. Patients can work with their healthcare team to create a comprehensive care plan that addresses both their physical and emotional well-being. Maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in moderate physical activity, and adhering to medical treatments are crucial for managing symptoms and slowing progression.
It’s important to also prioritize emotional health by seeking counseling or support groups, as these offer valuable spaces for emotional expression and connection. Patients should aim to set realistic goals and focus on the activities that still bring joy, whether that’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in spiritual practices. Building resilience through small, manageable steps can help patients remain optimistic and empowered despite the challenges they face.
Liver Canada: What resources are available to patients that can help them better manage their condition?
Ilda: Patients with chronic liver disease have a variety of resources available to them. First and foremost, they should maintain a close relationship with their healthcare provider to get guidance on disease management and treatments. Many hospitals and clinics offer specialized liver disease care teams, which may include hepatologists, nutritionists, and mental health professionals.
Additionally, national and local liver disease associations [like Liver Canada] often provide educational materials, support groups, and access to counseling services. Online resources, including virtual support groups and mental health services, can also be a great way for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Mental health professionals, such as registered social workers and psychotherapists specializing in chronic illness or trauma-informed care, can help patients navigate the emotional complexity of living with a chronic disease. Furthermore, lifestyle coaching and wellness programs, such as those focused on nutrition and exercise, can help patients maintain their overall well-being.
Liver Canada is here for you. If you are looking for support, please contact our National Help Line +1 800-563-5483 or email us at clf@liver.ca.
More about Ilda Caeiro-Azzam:
Ilda Caeiro-Azzam is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and psychotherapist with over 22 years of clinical experience, specializing in trauma-informed care, chronic illness, and rehabilitation. She works with individuals and families navigating the emotional and psychological impacts of chronic disease diagnoses, including liver disease. Ilda provides psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and mental health support, utilizing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to her therapeutic work, she is committed to supporting patients through the grief and adjustment phases that often accompany chronic illness, offering a compassionate, client-centered approach. Ilda also provides clinical supervision to other mental health professionals and is the founder of ICA Counselling & Supervision.
