Living with COPD or asthma can affect more than breathing. The needs of people with they may need better information about their condition, guidance on self-care and treatment, and emotional support. Learning how to manage symptoms and adapt to everyday life can therefore become an important part of living with a chronic respiratory condition.
When Breathing Affects Your Emotions
Breathing difficulties can affect more than physical health. For people with COPD or asthma, breathlessness can make everyday activities more challenging and may lead to frustration, worry or emotional distress. When symptoms become difficult to manage, they can also affect a person’s confidence and sense of control.
The relationship can work both ways, as anxiety and emotional distress may also make the experience of breathlessness feel more intense. Research has found that anxiety is more common among people with asthma or COPD overlap, highlighting the close connection between respiratory symptoms and emotional well-being. If you want to learn more about how emotional distress can affect intimacy, read our article on
Overcoming Anxiety and Psychological Barriers in Intimacy with a Respiratory Condition
Embrace your Breath
Breathing is part of your life, not something to hide. Let the Breathment App guide you to have an active role in your breathing journey
Why You Don’t Have to Feel Ashamed
People with COPD or asthma may sometimes experience stigma, shame, blame or guilt because of their condition. They may feel uncomfortable about their symptoms, treatment or limitations, or worry about how others perceive them. However, breathing difficulties are a health issue and are not something a person should feel ashamed of.
Research has linked stigma-related experiences with several areas of patients’ lives, including emotional well-being, quality of life, treatment and daily activities. Understanding that these feelings can be part of living with a chronic respiratory condition can help people recognise that they are not alone—and that their condition does not define who they are.
Finding Support When You Need It
Living with COPD or asthma can sometimes feel isolating, especially when symptoms affect everyday life. Research shows that loneliness and social support are separate experiences and can have different relationships with health outcomes in people with asthma and COPD.
Support from family, friends, healthcare professionals or patient groups can provide reassurance, guidance and encouragement with self-care. Having someone to talk to or share experiences with can also help people feel less alone when dealing with the challenges of a respiratory condition.
Despoina Chrisoulaki
