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18 Times 'The Office' Perfectly Described Life With Chronic Illness

The most helpful emails in health
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On days when I’m struggling with my chronic illness, depression, or both, sometimes all I can manage is curling up in bed and watching Netflix. But if my health is already bringing me down, I find it immensely helpful (and distracting) to put on one of my favorite lighthearted and funny TV shows.

Like many others, I’m sure, one of my go-to options is “The Office.” Not only are there nine whole seasons to immerse myself in, but the show makes me laugh until I cry every single time – regardless of how many times I’ve seen each episode.

So, for anyone who’s feeling about as well as Meredith after Michael hit her with his car, this one’s for you.

1. When you’re trying to keep up with all your responsibilities while battling chronic illness:

Chili GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

2. When you feel your symptoms starting to flare up:

The Office No GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

3. When someone says you don’t “look” sick:

Angry The Office GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

4. When people try to offer you unsolicited medical advice:

The Office No GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

5. When you just don’t understand what’s going on with your body:

The Office Ugh GIF by Romy - Find & Share on GIPHY

6. When you know you’ll pay tomorrow for doing something fun today:

Scared The Office GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

7. When someone says you should try being more positive:

The Office Dwight GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

8. When you’re sick of being sick:

I Just Want It To Stop Jim Halpert GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

9. When your doctor asks which parts of your body hurt:

The Office GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

10. When your illness keeps you stuck at home:

The Office Nbc GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

11. When someone tells you to feel better soon:

The Office Bj Novak GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

12. When a new treatment actually works:

Michael Scott Dance GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

13. When all your test results come back negative:

The Office GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

14. When you spend all night researching your condition:

Smart The Office GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

15. When you know more about your illness than your doctor:

The Office Eye Roll GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

16. When someone asks how you’re doing:

The Office Television GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

17. When you make it through a day with spoons left over:

The Office GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

18. When you remember you’re a chronic warrior and are strong enough to face any obstacles life throws your way:

Rainn Wilson GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

All GIFs courtesy of GIPHY

Originally published: October 31, 2017
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