Young Adults/Teens with CF

Managing cystic fibrosis (CF) can sometimes feel overwhelming at any stage of your life. Cystic Fibrosis Canada can help you navigate life with CF by connecting you to the resources you need.

young man uses a respirator while scrolling on his mobile phone

Goal: optimal health

Being a teenager or young adult with a chronic disease like cystic fibrosis (CF) can be challenging, especially with the demands of a social life, school, activities, etc. Balancing your social life and making good lifestyle choices are essential to maintaining your health. You can ensure you stay as healthy as possible by exercising regularly, eating well, getting enough sleep, maintaining a treatment plan, and avoiding smoking and drinking.

Manage your transition

During this time, you can become more independent and a natural progression is that you will start taking more responsibility for your treatments. Airway clearance, exercise, nutrition and medications will all remain vital aspects of cystic fibrosis management and adherence to your treatment plan is essential to maintain the best health possible. Doing things like reducing your CF treatments or exposure to large groups of people can negatively impact your health. You don’t have to stay in your room- simply be aware of the activities you need to be cautious of or avoid entirely to protect your health.

You may also be transitioning clinics from pediatrics (children’s hospital) to adult. This will also require you to make new relationships with a new CF care team. Check out our transition guide, developed with the support of our adult cystic fibrosis advisory committee, to ensure the transition goes smoothly.

Transitioning from Paediatric to Adult Care

Mental health and young adults

Adolescence and young adulthood can be stressful times of change and many young adults struggle with mental health challenges during this transitional time. Young people with cystic fibrosis are at greater risk of experiencing mental health challenges like anxiety and depression due to the ups and downs of living with a chronic illness. Triggers can include:

new health issues (diabetes, continence issues, etc.).
changes in your health.
difficulty maintaining normal activities such as work or personal relationships.
poor body image.

Anxiety and depression can affect how you manage and cope with cystic fibrosis, so it is important to look after your mental health and seek help when you need it.

Mental Health Resources

Receiving a CF diagnosis

Finding out that you have cystic fibrosis is bound to come as a shock, no matter what age you are. It can also bring a sense of relief because you finally have an explanation for your symptoms. No matter how you feel, this is a huge change, and the first step can be learning about cystic fibrosis and what is involved in managing your symptoms. Remember, you are not alone! There are resources and support to help you navigate this journey.

Learn more about new diagnosis at all ages