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COPE WITH ILLNESS OR LOSS
It’s not a coincidence that cold sores often happen when we’re at emotional or physical lows. Here are a few suggestions on how to take care of yourself during those tough moments in life.
Get support
Friends and family want to be there for you, but they don’t always know what you need. Rather than avoid them, let them know how they can support you. You can also find support groups through counseling centers, your doctor or local hospitals. If you’re depressed, talk to a mental health professional or counselor you trust.
Look after your physical and emotional needs
Caring for yourself will keep your energy levels high and replenish your emotional reserves. You can do this by getting enough sleep, eating right, exercising and expressing your feelings in tangible or creative ways — avoiding your feelings only prolongs the healing process.
Keep doing what you like to do
Continuing to do the things you like to do will keep your spirits up and give you a sense of community. If you’ve lost interest in the things you once liked to do, seek support from a trusted counselor or mental health professional.
Be gentle with yourself
It takes time to adapt to an illness or loss. At first, your feelings can be confusing and could range from anger to fear to depression. Once you learn how to fit the illness into your life, or once you have let yourself experience the grief of loss, you’ll start to feel like yourself again.
