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Because strong emotions tend to worsen shortness of breath, some people suppress their emotions, but depression and anxiety are common reactions to the life changes a person with lung disease experiences. In addition, shortness of breath itself itself may cause anxiety and depression, interfere with sexual activity, and cause difficulty managing stress and relaxing. Through counseling, group therapy, and, when needed, drug treatment, people may be able to better cope with these psychosocial problems. Sometimes family members participate in counseling to help them cope with the stress involved in caring for a person with lung disease.
Last full review/revision May 2007 by Bartolome R. Celli, MD
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