Besides physical changes, you may experience many emotional, social, and psychological changes as you age. It wouldn’t be uncommon for you to experience some of the following states of mind, and your viewpoint may change over time.

  • You may openly deny that you even have a bleeding disorder.
  • You may become self-absorbed, feeling that the condition rules your life.
  • You may feel embarrassed, ashamed, or less than whole.
  • You may feel depressed about having a chronic condition.
  • You may feel isolated, overwhelmed, or misunderstood.

Seeking help for thoughts like these isn’t a sign of weakness. Various avenues are available. In many cases, hemophilia treatment centers have a social worker on staff who’s familiar with the emotional turns caused by a blood condition. There are also hemophilia chapters and support groups that give people a chance to meet and share their experiences.

On a personal level, you may be concerned about the effect your condition has on your relationships. You may question how others perceive you. Disclosure may be difficult, especially if you have a secondary condition, such as HIV or hepatitis. In the workplace, you may worry about losing your job because you’re using the company insurance. All these concerns are real, but they also have practical answers. Federal mandates now protect your rights in the workplace, and your relationships will depend more on what you’re willing to bring to them. Again, never think that your doubts are unusual, and don’t be shy about counseling if your concerns start to inhibit your lifestyle.