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Chronic illness

nurse talking with female patient about her medication

Illness that persists for a long period. Chronic illnesses include many major diseases and conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Disease management is important when dealing with chronic illness; this includes ensuring adherence to treatment and maintaining quality of life.

Adapted from the APA Dictionary of Psychology

Resources from APA

A woman sitting up in bed at night, likely experiencing insomnia or sleep

Treating patients with chronic insomnia

Laurie Ivey, PsyD, helps people sleep better so they can live better

Integrating mental health into diabetes care

Tackling the emotional side of diabetes helps patients live healthier, more fulfilling lives

person holding a clipboard

Psychology’s role in pediatric-to-adult health care transitions

New guidelines detail how psychologists can help young people with chronic illnesses

Speaking of Psychology: Hot flashes, heart health and hormones: Rethinking menopause, with Rebecca Thurston, PhD

Hot flashes, heart health and hormones: Rethinking menopause

Rebecca Thurston, PhD, discusses links between menopause symptoms and long-term cardiovascular and Alzheimer’s risk

More resources about chronic illness

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APA books

Magination Press children’s books

Cover of Ani's Light (medium)

Ani's Light

Journal special issues

Cover of Obesity (special issue of American Psychologist, February–March 2020)

Obesity: Psychosocial and Behavioral Aspects

Cover of Responding to the Opioid Crisis (special issue of Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, October 2019)

Responding to the Opioid Crisis

Cover of Physical Health of Men and Boys (special issue of Psychology of Men & Masculinities, April 2019)

Physical Health of Men and Boys

Cover of Cardiovascular Disease (special issue of American Psychologist, November 2018)

Cardiovascular Disease