Acceptance and Chronic Illness

When you're diagnosed with a chronic illness, you discover that you will probably have it for the rest of your life. The symptoms may come and go, varying in strength and severity, and changing length and duration. If it is something that can't be cured, there is nothing to do but manage it the best that you can, and find a way to accept it. This is a lot easier said than done, so here are some strategies for getting to this point.

Acceptance is Not the Same Thing as Giving Up

Remember that just because you are accepting your chronic illness and what it means for you, that doesn't mean you are giving up on yourself from having a good life. Sometimes people are afraid to get to this point because they think they will just drown in the grief over what they lost. When you are able to accept what you are dealing with, you can find ways to fit it into your life and still have an enjoyable life.

Don't Resist Your Negative Feelings

It is really important that you don't resist your negative feelings. It can be easy to just pretend you feel completely fine with your chronic illness and that it's not a big deal. While this may seem like the right approach, it can actually derail the acceptance process. Accepting is also not the same thing as loving your chronic illness. It is more about coming to a place of acknowledgement so that you can move on from this coping process, into managing your symptoms.

Allow yourself to grieve, feel sad or angry, and even depressed. Just don't let it overtake your entire life.

Express Gratitude Every Day for What Your Body Does For You

No matter what kind of illness, pain, or disability you have as a result of your chronic illness, your body still does amazing things for you. Start expressing gratitude about all the blessings your body provides you. Whether that is being able to stand up on your own and walk without assistance, even if you have some pain while doing it. Or waking up and making it out of bed before noon. There is always something to be grateful for. Celebrate your small wins. The more you show appreciation for what your body can still do for you, the easier it is to accept your diagnosis.

Don't Identify Yourself by Your Chronic Illness

You have a chronic illness, you are not your chronic illness. It should not define you or be the only thing you represent to the world. It is great to want to fight the stigma of invisible illnesses and make sure others are aware of what it is like to live with one. However, you are so much more than your chronic illness or pain. Remember who you are and what makes you great.