If you suffer from a chronic illness, physical condition, or pain, you have probably heard some version of the phrase “but you don’t look sick” at one time or another. It’s frustrating and annoying to say the least. Those of us who live with a chronic health condition often find ourselves being misunderstood by others. They see us as looking normal and seem to find it hard to believe we are struggling physically. This may be most true at work with our co-workers or employers who do not understand the energy it takes us on a day to day basis to simply maintain ‘normal’ functioning.

Truthfully, most chronic conditions can appear “invisible” to others until they have reached end-stage.  Thus, living with a chronic health condition may involve years of responses and looks from friends, coworkers, and even family members that are anything but understanding.  This is draining and stressful in an already taxing situation and takes an emotional toll after a while.

Christine Miserandino is an award winning author and blogger and she also suffers from Lupus.  She wrote this amazing explanation of what it’s like to live with a chronic illness.  It’s called “The Spoon Theory” and you’ll understand why after you read it.  If you have friends or family members who don’t understand what you deal with on a day to basis, try explaining the spoon theory to them.

Stacey Wald, LAPC, RD

swald@ GROWcounseling.com