Hi there!
As you know, living with chronic illness is VERY hard. Being diagnosed with a physical or mental health condition (or several) can feel very overwhelming. On the other hand, sometimes finally having the correct diagnosis can be a huge relief. Either way, navigating the challenges that come with chronic illness is stressful and time consuming.
Having a reliable support system is absolutely essential for a person with chronic illness. The ideal support system is built of medical professionals, family, friends, neighbors, and pets.
Let me tell you a bit about my support system.
My parents are wonderful people; they have helped me enormously through my physical and mental health struggles. I can't even count how many times my mom has sat with me through a panic attack, stayed with me in the emergency room, gone to doctor's appointments with me, and so much more. She does it all with unconditional love.
My dad has provided the same amount of love, care, and concern. He often asks about the health books and podcasts I follow, and listens intently to my ideas and vitality goals.
And truly, all four of my siblings have been amazing. They have been patient with my lower energy levels, new dietary needs, and times when I have to cancel or change plans, due to a flare-up or panic attack.
My friends have been just as supportive as my family; I know chronic illness sometimes causes people to lose friends. On the contrary, all of my friends have stayed close to me. A few years ago, I was talking to my two closest friends and one of them said: "You know when Al is around, there's going to be a lot of vegetables!" The three of us were eating salads and having a good laugh over her comment. The love and support of those two women is palpable.
Of course, my pups have been a huge comfort to me. They are sweet Maltese; they sleep in my bed every night, love me unconditionally, and are sure to give me extra cuddles and kisses on my harder days.
Then, while I need to get to know my literal neighbors better, I really appreciate the neighborly support that comes from a few women in my family's church congregation. The three women that come to mind have talked me through panic attacks, sat with me during heavy states of depression, called to find out how they could help me during a fibromyalgia flare, and so much more. I'm so very grateful for these ladies.
Ultimately, I have an incredible medical team. My primary care nurse practitioner, endocrinologist, chiropractor, acupuncturist, (former) therapist, and energy healer have made my life SO much better. My physical and mental health is infinitely better, largely due to my healers.
Truly, it takes a while to build a strong support network. Also, it takes time and plenty of effort to build relationships with health practitioners. With my natural support system (family, friends, etc.), we spent the time learning together about my health conditions and what my "new life" may entail.
The time and effort it takes to create and maintain a strong support system can be overwhelming; I promise you though, it is worth every minute.
One final thought; if you don't have many people in your life to support you in your health journey, look around for online support groups. You may find individuals on the Internet can truly empathize with your health struggles. Hey, it's worth a shot!
Lots of love,
Al
