Life with Chronic Pain and Illness: Chronic Illness Is a Thief

Life with Chronic Pain and Illness

 

 

Life with chronic pain and illness takes a toll on a person. Life changes dramatically when someone lives with chronic pain and illness. And there are many things it steals, as well.  Here are just a few of them:

 

• Chronic pain and illness steals identities. On a daily basis, you may find yourself looking in the mirror and remembering who you were and wondering who you are and who you will become.
• Chronic pain and illness steals relationships. Unless you live with chronic pain and illness, it’s next to impossible to truly understand it. And sadly, there are many people who may not take the time to even try to do so.
•  Chronic pain and illness steals plans and dreams. Most people grow up envisioning what their life will be like. I have yet to meet anyone who included life with chronic pain and illness in those plans. As a result, it may be hard to adjust those plans and dreams to this new reality.
• Chronic pain and illness steals independence. While someone was once able to be spontaneous, enjoy a variety of activities and hobbies, etc., in many cases, that is no longer the case. Now, each choice—each activity—must be weighed. A decision must be made as to whether or not it is worth the amount of spoons (energy) required. 

 

This list is just a small glimpse into the variety of things life with chronic pain and illness can steal from someone. Is there anything you’d add to the list?

 

I hope you have a low-pain day.

 

If you’d like to read more Life with Chronic Pain and Illness posts, click here.