Dealing with Stigma and Misunderstanding of Chronic Illness

I dont, nobody understands.

After I cry I kept going

Answering questions when I have the time and energy. I know I don't owe anyone an explanation but I find it helpful to share what I'm comfortable sharing at the time. I've had to cut some relatives out of my life because they would only see me on my good days and refused to believe that I have chronic health issues even though I've got the medical tests and loads of specialists to prove it. 🤷‍♀️

If I'm around friends I let them do some of the explaining to strangers of any questions come up. That usually defers all the stupid questions people ask. One of my closest friends is really good at giving people the cold shoulder when someone is being creepy so that helps a lot. If I'm on my own and someone starts asking strange questions I usually answer the basic questions (why do you have a walking stick, what's your condition called, etc.) And when the questions get stranger or more personal then I'd like to share I pretend that I'm running late for something and leave the situation

I tend to keep it on a need to know basis and/or wait until other people have fully accepted me before bringing it up. I have a type of schizophrenia and have honestly been asked, "Is that the one where you kill people?" The other responses tend to be more related to DID :/ I wish more people understood

I have to explain a lot, especially about my service dog. Since I look "normal" most people think I am. Also, I don't dare mention that I am schizophrenic and bipolar. If I do, people assume I belong in a mental institution! I know that avoidance is not a solution, but it tends to work with the general public. I advocate for understanding and awareness with those who may be more accepting.

When I can, I try to talk to people ahead of time if I know there would be times it's going to be visible to someone to for the first time. It's work I wish I didn't have to do, but also, it allows me to set the narrative and expectations.