When living with a chronic health condition it can sometimes feel like people resent leaving the house. That if we are not working full time then we have no reason or right to venture outside.
Living with multiple health conditions is a challenging situation to find yourself in. When you see different medical professionals for differing conditions and from different specialities it can seem like all your time is spent juggling symptoms — organising medical notes — preparing for appointments.
It’s like having a full-time job — often a daily chore of physiotherapy — medication preparation — hospital visits — balancing mental and physical health. Staying connected. Being a part of the community — having a purpose — challenging perceptions — resting — exercising — eating and hydrating properly — all things that need careful consideration. Knowing every day is different.
On top of that, the need to maintain some normality in everyday life. There has to be something that can be enjoyed — a walk — a trip to the shops — a drink at a local cafe — a visit to a place of nature.
Staying locked up inside can feel like the easiest thing to do — sometimes feels like the right thing to do— away from stares and judgement — even resentment and disbelief. Misunderstood — fearful of the looks and comments. Concern that you are the topic of conversation just because you dare to smile in public. Or because you are wearing nice clothes and have put some make-up on.
So please consider what went into each person being able to leave the house. Think about how they feel each time they step outside the front door. Be aware of the impact of isolation and how that affects mental health. Then in turn how that impacts physical health.
Don’t make the chronically ill feel more isolated and stigmatised than they already do. Accept them into the community. Give them a chance to make some progress without judgement — resentment or fear. Acceptance is crucial — understanding and support key.
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