We know what we are supposed to do. The doctor has specifically prescribed this:
- Sleep is important.
- Exercise regularly.
- Eat healthier.
- Maintain good hydration.
- Spend less time on your phone.
But knowing all this, we rarely do it.
The Knowing-Doing Gap
In spite of that we:
Binge watch Netflix after a hard day’s work to relax or have our me time.
Sign up for the gym membership but rarely show up.
Reach for the pastry while the fruit is sitting in the refrigerator
These things play out regularly in our everyday scenarios.
When Knowledge Isn't Enough
I have seen people living with diabetes who understand exactly what foods worsen their blood sugar, yet are helpless when it comes to avoiding those same foods during moments of stress or celebration.
Consider someone who has been drinking heavily for years. In spite of repeated warnings from the doctor and concerned family members, the habit continues until they are diagnosed with liver cirrhosis, if not worse.
The Missing Piece
Is this laziness?
Are we dealing with a lack of discipline or weak willpower?
Or is there something deeper that keeps us repeating behaviors we already know are harmful?
In the recent couple of years, I have seen that most patients are well informed. They can tell me what they should be eating, how much they should exercise, and which habits are harming them. They do not lack the knowledge. You can actually catch them giving this same advice to their fellow men.
They are not willing to put that information to practice. They prefer to remain on their medication rather than enduring the effort of inculcating the change that will make a difference.
The Turning Point
However, when things become tough, the diagnosis of kidney failure or heart failure is heard, then the realization strikes. Then like a man swimming in the ocean with the waves crashing over his head, they begin running from pillar to post seeking help and searching for solutions.
Now the realization dawns that if only I had paid heed and done the things that I knew better. Now come the regrets. Now comes the guilt.
The Physician's Dilemma
Along with prescribing medication and giving advice, my biggest challenge as a physician has been to help my patients recognize the severity of their problem before it forces itself on them.
Helping them reach the realization before it is too late, is a challenge I continue to struggle with in my practice.
About me:
Dr. Francisco Noronha, on a mission to help you take back control of your life.
No comments:
Post a Comment