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UNDERSTANDING THE EMOTIONAL REACTION TO A DIAGNOSIS OF MENIERE\'S DISEASE
Being diagnosed as having Meniere\'s disease can be psychologically devastating as you face a challenging period of adjustment forced upon you by the symptoms of vertigo, tinnitus and hearing loss.
Ross Dineen (1990) modified the multi-staged adjustment model developed by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross to identify the range of emotions experienced during the grieving process, to explain the emotional experiences associated with adjusting to hearing loss in adult life. The stages in this model are just as relevant to the emotional and psychological impact that occurs when a person is diagnosed with Meniere\'s disease, which may be experienced as a chronic, debilitating condition.
The degree or intensity of a person\'s reaction to a diagnosis of Meniere\'s disease may not be directly proportional to the severity of the condition. It can often be directly related to factors such as the individual\'s
- need for, and use of communication in daily life
- need for, and use of balance in daily life
- attitude to his or her self and to others (beliefs)
- ability to be flexible and adapt to change
- ability and opportunity to establish a strong support system in family, social and work environments
- present level of communication and balance skills Q perception of his or her place in society
- willingness to seek medical help as soon as possible.
Grieving over a major loss in one\'s life can be a very painful experience. A person with Meniere\'s may typically mourn the loss of freedom and independence, confidence, career, financial security, personal relationships and the ability to communicate effectively. Nothing seems normal and consequent feelings of uncertainty may result in a loss of self esteem. This has been described as feeling as though you have lost your \'self.
It is important that a person diagnosed with Meniere\'s disease understands the grieving process and recognizes that it is normal to experience a range of emotions during this time. Allow yourself to express your emotions, both to yourself and to other people with whom you have close contact. Often it is through this process of suffering and pain that greater insight and understanding is achieved. Through this experience you can reach deep inside yourself and tap natural reserves you never dreamed existed.
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GENERAL HEALTH
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