Individuals living with sickle cell disease (SCD) must develop psychological resilience to manage the ongoing uncertainty, physical challenges and emotional strain associated with the condition, a columnist writes in Punch.
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder marked by abnormally shaped red blood cells that can obstruct blood flow and lead to severe pain, fatigue and medical complications.
In Nigeria, where the prevalence of sickle cell disease is among the highest globally, patients and experts have underscored the multidimensional nature of living with the condition — spanning physical, emotional and social domains.
The column by Tola Dehinde notes that living with SCD entails ongoing unpredictability in health, with individuals uncertain how much energy they will have on any given day.
The piece describes resilience as a process rather than a fixed trait, involving repeated practice of positive self-talk and mental reframing, such as affirming one’s capabilities despite physical limitations.
According to the article, resilience for someone with SCD includes acknowledging fear, fatigue and grief explicitly, and accepting these feelings as part of lived experience rather than denying them.
The column also emphasises building self-trust, acknowledging past challenges and adapting to one’s health realities, rather than allowing setbacks to define identity or ambition.
Resilience is described as growing through community support. Including friends, mentors and others with sickle cell, as well as strategies like reflection, faith or structured mental practice that can provide emotional grounding.
The commentary highlights psychological resilience as an essential aspect of managing sickle cell disease alongside physical care.
By focusing on mindset, support structures and emotional processing, individuals with SCD may be better positioned to pursue personal goals and daily responsibilities while navigating health challenges.
Efforts to raise awareness and support for psychological as well as medical aspects of SCD could influence how healthcare providers, communities and caregivers understand the broader needs of patients.
