Breaking Taboos: Addressing the Emotional Impact of Urinary Incontinence

2023-08-03 12:11:23

There are several dynamics and communication tools that can reduce the emotional stigma associated with this condition.

According to the 2022–2023 Essity Health and Hygiene Survey in Colombia, it has been observed that 8% of respondents report experiencing mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, linked to incontinence.

Medellin, July 2023. Urinary incontinence is a health challenge that affects more than 400 million people worldwide, and its impact goes beyond the physical aspects. In Colombia, according to the results of the latest Essity Hygiene and Health Survey, it has been found that 8% of those surveyed state that they experience mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety, linked to this condition. These findings show how existing taboos around this natural condition can have a negative impact on emotional development and generate stigma for those who suffer from it. Therefore, it is essential to recognize and address the psychological implications associated with this condition, as well as work to normalize it and empower those who face it.

With the aim of continuing to break taboos and promoting the integral well-being of people, Maria Adelaida Mejia, Marketing Manager for the Tena business unitthe world’s leading brand in urinary incontinence , shares 5 tips to emotionally support your loved ones in the face of incontinence and possible associated emotionssuch as depression and anxiety.

1.Seek information and educate yourself about urinary incontinence: Acquiring knowledge about this condition is crucial to understanding its nature and management. Consulting trusted sources, speaking with health professionals, and sharing information among family members can help reduce anxiety and promote an informed approach to the situation.

2. Foster open and understanding communication: It is essential to create a safe environment where both affected individuals and their families feel comfortable sharing their concerns and emotional needs related to urinary incontinence. Empathy and understanding are critical to building a strong supportive relationship.

3. Promote autonomy and self-esteem: It is essential to promote independence and self-confidence in the management of urinary incontinence for emotional well-being. Encouraging affected individuals to actively participate in their self-care and celebrate their achievements can strengthen their self-esteem and contribute to a positive attitude towards the condition.

4. Provide emotional support: Emotional support and active listening can make a difference in the lives of those dealing with urinary incontinence. Providing a safe space for them to express their feelings, concerns, and frustrations can ease the emotional burden and strengthen the family bond.

5.Explore treatment options and solutions: It is important to research available treatment options and discuss them with a healthcare professional. Since urinary incontinence can have a variety of causes, there are a number of ways to address it, from lifestyle changes and physical therapy to using medications or considering surgical interventions. It is also relevant to know about urinary incontinence products, such as protectors, towels or pants, since they are part of the acceptance and adaptation process.

Lastly, Mejía highlights the importance of promoting information and education about urinary incontinence, a condition that affects many people who do not usually talk about it. “At TENA, we strive to break taboos and promote education through our virtual academy. We offer constant virtual conversations for the general public, emphasizing that everyone can lead a full social life without worrying about this condition. In addition, we have a virtual office to monitor, answer questions and provide a safe space so that each individual can be well informed on this topic, since we believe that information is essential for the well-being of people.”

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#Mental #wellbeing #urinary #incontinence #tips #emotionally #support #loved

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