Recrafting a Life

Coping with Chronic Illness and Pain

Charles Johnson author Denise Webster author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:22nd Feb '02

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Recrafting a Life cover

Chronic illness and pain are now, more than ever, seen asas major problems in the current health care system. Because they are unresponsive to both antibiotics and surgery, theyr are seen as elusive and mysterious. The National Medical Expenditure Survey estimates that over 80 million U.S. citizens live with a chronic illness. The most prevalent are arthritis, diabetes, respiratory diseases, hypertension and mental illness. This book uses the novel Robinson Crusoe as an archetypal metaphor for the patients who must learn to survive on their own isolated "island" of chronic pain. This unique style is combined with a variety of in-session approaches and other tools which clients have found helpful in identifying their goals and progress. By emphasizing the importance of self-care the authors hope to diminish the sense of helplessness felt by the both the patients their loved ones.

"This book uses the 18th century novel, Robinson Crusoe as an archetypal metaphor for thos individuals who sufer and must learn to surive with their own island of pain. The authors describe how one's journey of survival of living with chronic illness or chronic pain is comparable to the 27-year journey of Crusoe stranded on a desert island...This book is interesting to read as well as a helpful companion for therapists, clients and family members. I particularly like the metaphor the authors use of the turning point in the novel where Crusoe becomes more aware of the small blessings arounf him and begins to appreciate that, indeed, not only might he survive on this isolated island, but, in fact, using his skills and intuition, he may be able to create a satisfactory life for himself. There are lessons and great insights to be learned from adversity, lessons allowing one to deepen their relationship with the mystery of everyday life." -- Death Studies

ISBN: 9781583913567

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 566g

336 pages