Home  Ask Prickles Feeling Embarassed?
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Feeling Embarassed? |
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Some people with invisible illnesses such as fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome say they feel ashamed to use their walking stick or their disabled parking permit because they don't look sick so people are suspicious. Some people are embarrassed by the smell of their muscle rub or the fact that they can't do things that they used to do.
I just want to point out that when people question you or notice things that make it clear that there is something wrong with you, this is your chance to increase awareness!
When people ask me why I reek of menthol (my muscle rub) or why my back is lumpy (thank you heat patches!) or why I am wearing a wrist support, etc etc I am not ashamed or embarrassed, I tell them I have fibromyalgia and answer any questions they have, then conclude with "I have been trying to increase awareness actually, so I'm really glad you asked! I have some information about it in my handbag if you are interested. It explains it better than I can!" then produce one of my leaflets for them to read.
When people respond saying "oh how terrible" I don't feel offended that they pity me, I just smile and say "well some people have it a lot worse than me, the severity of symptoms varies a lot. & a lot of people have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome on top of fibromyalgia, so that must be a lot harder to handle" ...this then gives me the opportunity to do a bit of educating about CFS as well.
So please don't feel ashamed when your symptoms are visible, take advantage of the situation and educate people about our illnesses. They may know someone with the same symptoms who is still searching for a diagnosis! Help increase awareness and feel proud of yourself for doing so. Best wishes, Prickles! |
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