by Nikki Albert

Created on: November 06, 2010

If you have been diagnosed with an invisible illness you will go through a roller-coaster of emotions from guilt, depression, frustration and, yes, acceptance.  That which is not visible to others can be doubted leading those to suffer in silence, feel ashamed for being ill and becoming isolated.  So how does one effectively live with an invisible illness?  Aside from wearing a sign on your forehead or screaming in agony.

First of all do not get lost in the past.  The good old days when you could do so much more and be so much more.  If you try to maintain the same lifestyle with the same goals you are setting yourself up for more suffering and stress.  Then comes the guilt for not being what you feel you should be, what you believe society expects you to be and what your family expects you to be.  You must define your limitations and live a lifestyle that suits them, whether that be changing your work environment, changing your career or altering your lifestyle habits.  It is not a matter of lowering your expectations, it is a matter of be realistic.

Secondly, do not let guilt cripple you.  Avoid thinking such 'must' and 'should' statements that define your assumptions of what it is to be a functioning member of society.  As in, 'I must work full-time or I will will be a burden to society and my family'.  Guilt is powerful.  There will be times you feel like you have let down your coworkers, your boss and your loved ones.  Your health and coping with your illness should be top of your list.  Pushing yourself beyond your means can have dire consequences, from depression to suicidal thoughts or actions.

Thirdly, make simple lifestyle changes that can improve your health.  Doctors will give you medication, but little else.  We need to develop our own team of people to help us live a lifestyle that is healthy and reduces stress.  This can be simple things like mild to moderate exercise, such as going for walks.  Ensuring that you do not become a hermit and leave the one at least once a day.  Quit smoking and drinking.  Take vitamin and herbal supplements to add to your medications.  Try out some alternative methods to add to medications like yoga, chiropractors, massage therapy and physiotherapy. 

Fourthly, never underestimate your emotional well being.  Invisible disabilities and chronic pain have a huge toll.  Seeing a psychologist is an excellent

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