When Health Becomes an Everyday Challenge
Living with a chronic health condition can be exhausting — not only physically, but mentally and emotionally.
Pain, fatigue, and unpredictable symptoms can take over your daily life, making even the smallest plans uncertain.
Conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affect millions of women in the UK, yet many still struggle to get a diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and the understanding they need from others. And while your body may be the focus of medical care, your mind often goes overlooked.
At Hope Therapy & Counselling Services, we recognise that managing a long-term condition is about far more than medication and hospital appointments. It’s also about finding ways to live well, protect your mental health, and feel understood.
Understanding the Impact of Conditions Like Endometriosis and PCOS
- Endometriosis — affects around 1.5 million women in the UK (Endometriosis UK, 2024). Symptoms include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, fatigue, and fertility difficulties.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) — impacts around 1 in 10 women (NHS, 2024) and can cause hormonal imbalances, weight changes, irregular cycles, and skin or hair concerns.
- Other chronic conditions — including autoimmune disorders, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), and adenomyosis can also significantly affect daily life.
While each condition is different, the emotional challenges are often similar: frustration at not being believed, grief for the life you had before, and isolation from friends or family who don’t fully understand what you’re going through.
The Emotional Side of Chronic Illness
A long-term health condition doesn’t just affect your body — it can impact every part of your life:
- Emotional fatigue from ongoing pain or unpredictable symptoms.
- Anxiety about flare-ups, medical appointments, or future health.
- Depression linked to lifestyle changes, isolation, or feeling misunderstood.
- Body image concerns due to weight fluctuations, scarring, or visible symptoms.
- Relationship strain when illness affects intimacy, shared activities, or fertility.
These feelings are normal — but you don’t have to face them alone.
How Counselling Can Help
Counselling offers a safe and non-judgemental space to:
- Process the emotional toll of living with a chronic condition.
- Explore grief and loss for the life you had before symptoms.
- Learn coping strategies for anxiety and stress during flare-ups.
- Rebuild self-esteem and body confidence.
- Strengthen communication skills for talking with partners, family, or healthcare professionals.
For many women, having a space where they don’t have to explain or justify their symptoms can be a huge relief in itself.
Why Choose Hope Therapy & Counselling Services?
- Experienced counsellors who understand the mental health impact of long-term conditions.
- Flexible online, phone, and in-person sessions to suit your health and energy levels.
- Free initial consultation so you can start without commitment.
- Confidential, compassionate support focused on your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Counselling for Chronic Health Conditions
Q: Can you help if I’m still waiting for a diagnosis?
Yes. Many women come to us during the uncertainty of referrals and tests. We can help you manage anxiety and feel supported while you wait.
Q: Will you tell me how to manage my medical symptoms?
No — medical treatment should come from your healthcare provider. Our role is to support your mental and emotional wellbeing alongside your medical care.
Q: Can counselling help with medical trauma or bad experiences with doctors?
Absolutely. Many of our clients have felt dismissed or not believed by healthcare professionals, and we can work through the frustration and loss of trust this creates.
Q: Do you work with clients who can’t always attend in person due to illness?
Yes — we offer online and phone counselling so you can access support even on days when travel is difficult.