Psychotherapy includes investigating how disease affects psychological health, and how psychological issues can contribute to physical illness. Illness and injury can lead to many stressors including financial stress, difficulty caring for dependents, and a reduced ability to be self-reliant. For some, the acknowledgment of a new and unwanted identity as a sick person also contributes to rising stress levels.
All of these stressors may lead to problems like low self-esteem or depression. Psychotherapy can be used to promote and encourage healing. When dealing with a terminal illness, therapy can help the patient recover his or her psychological well-being, leading to an increased quality of life.