Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: 12 Ways to Cope With the Chronic Illness by Samantha Bowick

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a rare genetic illness that occurs when normal levels of the alpha-1 antitrypsin protein aren’t produced by the liver, which affects lung function. It can be extremely stressful and difficult to cope with being diagnosed with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, as well as everything else that comes with having the illness. Coping mechanisms that may be helpful while battling alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency include:

• Praying or reading the bible.

• Writing in a gratitude journal every day.

• Going to counseling or seeing a psychiatrist.

• Taking time for yourself when you feel run down.

• Yoga, meditation and exercising (when able to due to breathing).

• Eating healthier when able to.

• Trying not to isolate yourself from others.

• Talking to others who have alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

• Asking for help when you need it.

• Painting rocks, reading, writing, coloring, arts and crafts, sewing (things that do not require a lot of physical exertion).

• Taking baths to relax.

• Connecting with people who have always been there for you.

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