Being diagnosed with a chronic illness, having a disability or suffering relentless pain can affect the way we live our lives. These conditions may affect physical or mental abilities, may change the way we interact with others socially, may reduce our employment and financial earning capacity and may change the way we see ourselves and our role in the community.

Many people who live with disabilities, illness and/or chronic pain can feel less independent as they may need to rely on others for transport or care, more isolated as they may be limited as to the activities they can participate in, and have feelings of despair and sadness.

There are ways you can cope with these conditions and how they can make you feel. By knowing more about your condition and its treatment you can learn how to live with it. Ensure there is good communication with your health carers, join social and/or support groups to help reduce feelings of isolation and try to maintain a bright outlook.

For further information or advice visit www.disabilityaction.org