If you’re living with an invisible illness, I truly empathize with you. Here’s your assignment: become a more vocal advocate for yourself.
And for those who know someone like this, lend your ears and support.
Superwoman: I See You
I see you, strong and resilient, juggling pain with grace. You might even look fantastic while doing it, which can mislead everyone around you, including healthcare providers. Whether you’ve received a diagnosis or are still searching for answers, your experience matters.
Take my friend Lisa, who battled undiagnosed fibromyalgia for years. She faced a barrage of misdiagnoses:
- It’s just stress.
- You’re too young for that.
- You look fine to me!
As if her outward appearance could somehow negate the debilitating pain she felt. Doctors dismissed her concerns, attributing her symptoms to anything from anxiety to aging. But let me remind you, enduring the excruciating experience of natural childbirth doesn’t mean someone is exaggerating their discomfort. When someone describes their “numbness” as feeling like their hands are being hit hard, it’s not simply from typing too much. If they say walking feels like their feet are constricted in tiny shoes, it’s definitely not a footwear issue.
I understand that doctors often recommend unnecessary tests, but it’s crucial for them to recognize when further investigation is warranted.
Trust Your Instincts
Now, back to you, Superwoman. This isn’t a call to panic or rush to your doctor. It’s about chronic symptoms and that instinctive feeling that something isn’t quite right, even as you manage daily life. Trust your intuition. When you finally decide to speak up, don’t hold back out of a sense of obligation to others. My friend Lisa delayed seeking a diagnosis because she thought it would be selfish to prioritize her health over her family’s needs.
There’s a blend of denial and hope that things will magically improve if we just keep pushing through. Lisa may still be walking, but that doesn’t mean she’s thriving. Recently, she voiced her frustration about not receiving the quality of care she deserves, and to her surprise, the doctor assured her that wasn’t the case—yet left her with no new solutions.
Keep Advocating for Yourself
So, if you feel like you’re out of options, keep advocating for yourself! Even if your concerns come off as “aggressive,” suggesting treatments you’ve researched is not a sign of disrespect. After all, we all share the same goal: improved health. By continuing the conversation, you’ll connect with others who may provide assistance in unexpected ways. We’re all in this together.
Superwoman, it’s your moment to shine. Let’s focus on you! One, two, three… Go!
Additional Resources
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In Summary
It’s essential for those with invisible illnesses to advocate for their health and speak up about their experiences. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to challenge the status quo, as your well-being deserves attention.