Dealing with Difficult People can become more stressful and worrying when that person is facing the prospect of having a serious illness. All of us become more anxious, worried and distressed with the possibility of needing to deal with a very serious health problem.
NOT KNOWING CAN BE WORSE THAN KNOWING FOR MANY PATIENTS
But can having a diagnosis of a serious illness result in less anxiety and stress, than having diagnosis uncertainty in relation to your health?
A recent study has found that for patients actually not knowing or having a possible diagnosis can result in more anxiety and stress than having been diagnosed with a serious illness.
It seems in dealing with people in the medical setting, levels of anxiety are higher where there is diagnosis uncertainty.
WHAT THE RESEARCH SHOWS ABOUT ANXIETY
Dr Eliva Lang and her colleague at the Harvard Medical School in Boston conducted a study involving 214 women with one group waiting to undertake treament for cancer or an unterine fibroid tumor.
With another group having a breast biopsy and therefore an uncertain diagnosis at that stage. Before undertaking medical treatments and procedures the participants underwent tests measuring their levels of anxiety and also other tests.
THE RESULTS MAKE INTERESTING READING TO CONSIDER
In this research it was identified that those women attending for a breast biopsy and so were uncertain about their diagnosis, then these woman experienced largely higher levels of anxiety and feeling little control over the situation. This was compared to those women who have been diagnosed before and were experiencing treatment for malignant cancer and fibroids. According to Dr Lang, when patients receive a diagnosis despite its negativity and confirmation of a serious illness, these patients did find understanding and some control over their situation and treatment options.
DEALING WITH PEOPLE AND THE LANGUAGE USED
Dr Lang also confirmed that when dealing with people and patient anxiety rather than using words such as “it will only hurt a little bit” words such as “hurt” should be left out of explanations. Rather very clear comfort-based words need to be used that focus on the personal strengths of patients in handling the issues.
DEALING WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE AND ADVICE
This research also has implications for you in dealing with difficult people who are patients or loved ones who have become patients. Be aware that their anxiety and stress levels will be raised, particularly in situations with an uncertain diagnosis. Be prepared to use truthful, honest and clear language and remind them of their ability to handle whatever diagnosis and circumstances will occur.
MORE IDEAS FOR YOU ON MANAGING DIFFICULT PEOPLE
We have many more ideas for you on dealing with frustrating, upsetting and stressful people in your life. You can read more posts on managing difficult people and even more other articles about the actions of difficult people.
