In life, we often find ourselves overwhelmed by challenges—some build up slowly, while others hit us without warning. So the question is: what do we do in those moments?
This week, following Resurrection Sunday, God placed it on my heart to share a testimony of His goodness. I want to speak from the heart and offer encouragement for those walking through tough medical and mental health journeys.
As a nurse, patient, and provider, I always begin by asking God for guidance. I believe He has placed me in each of these roles so I can gain knowledge, understanding, experience, and wisdom to help others heal and recover. How can I truly support someone if I’ve never walked a path of pain or adversity myself?
I’ve come to believe that my personal trials—my pain, disappointments, and setbacks—have shaped and humbled me into a better mother, woman, nurse, and provider. I’m still working on being a better patient (yes, I get cranky when I’m sick!). I’ve had moments of hopelessness, where I didn’t feel in control of my health. But I remind myself that God is holding my hand. He is ultimately in control of my healing.
Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.” As humans, we long for evidence, but as believers, we must first have faith. Sometimes, that’s all it takes—a mustard seed of faith—and the strength that comes from God, not our own willpower.
My Journey and Testimony
I live with chronic medical issues: diabetes, respiratory problems, musculoskeletal conditions, and more. I’ve faced mental health challenges, too. I’ve experienced grief—losing my maternal grandparents in 2021 and paternal grandmother in 2008. I’ve been through divorce, relationship pain, single parenting, academic struggles, financial hardship and juggling many other challenges. I’ve endured discrimination and deeply hurtful comments.
I’ve had near-death experiences—blood clots in my lungs and legs, having been struck by my car as a pedestrian, collapsed lungs from COVID-19, pneumonia with hypoxia, and long-haul COVID symptoms. I’ve battled depression and anxiety. So yes, I understand what it’s like to hurt.
This is my testimony. I want to reach those who are hurting and say: don’t give up. One of my favorite verses is Jeremiah 29:11 — “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
When life gets heavy, you may have to crawl, stand, roll, or hop your way forward—but do it. Keep the faith. Your hope, faith, and prayers are your armor.
Finding Support and Taking Action
Chronic medical and mental health conditions are those that last more than a year. The key to managing them is finding a provider you trust and partner with them. Make sure your provider is also culturally competent too. Look at their reviews, ask for referrals, and talk to trusted family or friends.
Make sure your provider supports open communication and listens to your concerns. It’s important to be accurately diagnosed too because it makes a difference in the treatment plan and options. This kind of partnership makes a big difference.
Lifestyle habits also matter. Exercise and walking—once it’s safe—helps improve mood, sleep, circulation, breathing, pain control, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and more. Eat home-cooked meals, limit fast food, decrease high sodium foods, and drink adequate amounts of water daily to restore balance in your body versus unhealthy beverages.
Sometimes, medication is necessary. While not everyone likes taking it, it’s important to understand the pros and cons. Talk with your provider about the best treatment plan for you. You need to get on the right medication and dosage regiment too in making a difference in your quality of life. You have to explore the treatment options of the disease and weigh the benefits and risk again of medication treatment that is in your best interest.
And please, consider joining a support group. You don’t have to go through this alone. Remember to adhere to your follow up appointments to better control the symptoms and maintain stability of the illness by also meeting acceptance of the journey which is never an easy step.
Practical Tips for Living with Chronic Medical and Mental Health Challenges
- Break stigma with positive affirmations
- Let go of shame—love yourself and practice self-care
- Don’t isolate—find support, even if it’s just one trusted person
- Please call 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if needed because it’s 24 hours
- Please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room too if suicidal or homicidal because the life you save may be your own or/and another
- Please call 911 as well if you are having a medical emergency because immediate intervention can be crucial to save your life
- Know your worth and speak life into your spirit
- Nourish your mind with healthy food for clear thinking
- Partner with a trusted medical and/or mental health providers
- Rest well and follow good sleep hygiene
- Manage your time and be okay with saying “no”
- Avoid drugs and alcohol—they make things harder
- Connect with a Bible-based church or spiritual group
- Pray continuously and build spiritual support
- Embrace your faith, values, and culture
- Pursue a career that aligns with your purpose
- Choose a partner who reflects your values and brings peace
- Find an exercise routine that suits your ability and health
- Join a wellness group for motivation and connection
- Listen to uplifting music that feeds your soul
- Do fun activities and hobbies that bring you joy
- Distance yourself from negativity
- Build healthy boundaries and expectations
- Focus on what you can control
- Therapy helps—talking is healing
- Set small, realistic goals and reward yourself
- Be mindful of your triggers
- Write down things you’re grateful for
- Stay engaged, encouraged, and empowered
- Remember—God loves you, so do I and you should love yourself too
Helpful Resources
- Coping Nurse Practitioner Services – Chronic Health
- Coping Nurse Practitioner Services – Resources
- Mayo Clinic – Exercise and Chronic Disease
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Godspeed, much love, and blessings,
Dr. Judy E. Vansiea, DNP, MA, MS, APRN, NPP
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