The Psychosocial Impact of Receiving and Coping with a Chronic Illness Diagnosis Amongst Young Adults

Abstract

The psychosocial implications of chronic illnesses (CIs) are an apparent issue as exemplified through the extensive literature put forth on the matter. However, the primary focus of this literature is typically the aging population, and researchers have given less consideration to the experiences of youth. At this point in their life, young adults are already experiencing self-discovery, pursuing anticipated milestones, and defining one’s worth/purpose, therefore, being diagnosed and living with a CI only complicates these matters. Investigating how CIs impact young adults’ mental health (MH) is imperative when trying to understand the various intersecting forces that influence one’s ability to achieve optimal health and well being. This research explores the psychosocial effect of receiving a CI diagnosis using a qualitative, interpretive phenomenological approach ( Van Menen’s viewpoint) in which 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with university students. Interviews were recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. Findings indicate that the onset of CIs among young adults adds/perpetuates various types of psychosocial distress, ultimately impacting one’s MH based on their exposure towards such stressors and ability to cope. Irrespective of individualized experiences, all participants unilaterally echoed the need for MH support post diagnosis. Such a finding warrants evaluation of the existing treatment and management of CIs, suggesting that interventions ought to be more holistically designed to include greater MH support.