When you’re living with an invisible chronic illness, people might doubt your need for accommodations, question whether or not you’re really “sick,” or wonder why you don’t simply work harder. You might hesitate to tell people when you need help, because you automatically assume they won’t believe you. Maybe you even put extra pressure on yourself to work harder than others in order to prove your worth.
At times, you may even doubt that you’re struggling with a chronic illness, but when you push too hard and your symptoms flare up again, the reality is undeniable. Coping with an invisible illness is challenging when it seems like no one really understands. These strategies can help you keep your chin up.
Prioritize Self-Care And Setting Boundaries
The self-care routines that benefit you might vary based on your symptoms and resources. Whatever self-care looks like for you, it’s important to prioritize these practices. When you fill your own cup, you’ll be able to show up for other people and handle your obligations.
It’s okay if you need more time for self-care than others. You don’t need to skimp on these routines in order to “keep up” with your friends or coworkers. By setting boundaries around your time, you can preserve your energy for the commitments that matter most to you.
Get Comfortable With Educating Others
Sometimes, people will ask invasive questions about your illness. You’re not required to answer every personal question that comes your way, and you have the right to your own privacy. However, when someone is curious, or they’re asking about your symptoms because they want to be able to help you, talking about your illness can actually be educational.
By informing others about your illness and your symptoms, you can move past the stigma of chronic illness and make sure that the people in your life know when you need extra support.
Practice Self-Advocacy
Asking for accommodations at work or in school can feel a little awkward when you have an invisible illness. You might worry that your needs will instantly be dismissed. But you never know what kind of support services and resources are available to you until you ask. By advocating for yourself, you may find that you’re able to excel in situations where you previously struggled. The right support can make a world of difference.
Lean On Your Loved Ones
Many people with invisible chronic illnesses feel burdened by a sense of shame around their diagnosis. You might be hesitant to ask the people in your life for help. Some of your loved ones may not even know about your illness. Practice making small requests when you’re struggling. Chances are, you’ll be surprised by the generosity of your loved ones.
What if you’re not comfortable talking to your friends and family about your illness yet? Connecting with an online or in-person support group for people with your diagnosis can be comforting. Even if others in the group can’t provide you with physical support in your daily life, they can be a source of comfort on hard days.
Work With A Therapist
Perhaps you’ve considered working with a therapist before, but you’ve hesitated to reach out because you’re not sure if they’ll really understand what you’re going through. By connecting with a therapist who specializes in supporting people with chronic illnesses, you can step into a safe space where your symptoms will not be invalidated or ignored. Therapy can help you navigate life with an invisible chronic illness.
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Whether or not your illness is visible to others, you deserve support. Reach out to our practice to discuss counseling for chronic illnesses and explore your options.
