Separating Myself from My Chronic Condition

I feel like it was both an inspiring statement and at the same time probably the worst thing that could be said. We are more then our conditions and I almost take the statement as don’t let this define your choices. You know like still dream and live like you can do anything. At the same time our conditions are a huge part of our life that should not be ignored or denied. We need to plan our futures or at least present with our sickness in mind and should be accepted for as we are.

After endless times being told to use mindfulness techniques and simply “acknowledge” my anxiety, I understand your frustration. But I still think your mom is right. I think it’s important to clarify that separating your sense of self from your chronic illness doesn’t mean you ignore your illness. That’s just not possible because, like you said, it’s your daily reality. But as soon as you let your chronic illness define who you are, it takes a different kind of hold over your life.

I understand. The challenge is to live a full life despite your condition, not denying it.

My mom is also a huge supporter of me as she’s made a bunch of hard decisions regarding my health when I was young but she doesn’t like it when I call myself disabled or chronically ill. She doesn’t see disabled as a neutral term and doesn’t see me as disabled either. It sucks :(

You have a very wise mother.