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.

Continue reading to discover another ongoing challenge for those living with an invisible illness.