What It's Like Living With An Invisible Illness

Constant Advocation

On top of already dealing with the critical side effects and symptoms of their condition, many patients also need to constantly explain and advocate for themselves as others tend to not fully comprehend something they cannot see or have never heard of before. Many will often feel they need to justify why they use disability parking, a walking cane, a walker, accessible restrooms, walk slowly, or why they’re always fidgeting and changing positions to get comfortable.

As a result, many patients will have to explain their condition and that they are in chronic pain and need to use these resources as well due to their condition and not because it is convenient or they are taking advantage of resources meant for others. This can be quite exhausting for many as they are clearly in need of such resources and should not be judged or ridiculed for its use simply because others do not understand.

Everyday Is Different

Although the behavior of those living with an invisible illness may appear difficult to fully understand, one of the biggest challenges that presents itself to a patient is the uncertainty each day brings, as each day presents unique challenges. Chronic illness is not a straight and narrow path, but rather is unpredictable and can be quite scary for those living with it on a day-to-day basis.

It must be hard to see someone looking a mess, tears falling down their face, barely able to walk, and constantly taking medication to find some relief, and then the next day is dressed with an upbeat attitude ready to take on the day as if nothing is wrong. However, many individuals will tell you it is a facade, a face they put on to face the world to make it seem like they are okay and managing their symptoms alright. They are simply trying to live in any way their bodies will let them, making each day unique and different from any other.