1.We're ALWAYS Experiencing Some Sort Of Symptom
Whether it's mild or it's debilitating, we are ALWAYS experiencing something. For example as I write this, I'm dealing with pain and a paralysis episode.
2. Invite Us To Things
Even if you genuinely think we won't be able to attend, there's no harm in asking. It's nice to know that someone is thinking of us even if it turns out we can't attend.
3.If We Say "I'm Fine" That's Different Than Your Fine
Due to dealing with disabling symptoms, our baseline of what we deem as "normal" is way different than a healthy person's. My "fine" is having chronic pain, some brain fog, and sometimes some mild gait issues
4.Just Because I Could Do Something Yesterday Doesn't Mean I Can Today
Many chronic illness and disabilities are dynamic, meaning they fluctuate in intensity. Which means that what a person can do on one day, they may not be able to another or vice-versa. Certain activities can worsen symptoms. So if a person walks around to a bunch of different shops then their symptoms may flare. Causing them to be unable to do something they may otherwise be able to.
5.Just Because My Symptoms Are Better, Doesn't Mean I'm Better
Like I just mentioned, many conditions are dynamic. So it's extremely common for us to have periods where our symptoms are calmer. But we're still disabled.
6.If I Bring Up A Symptom Then Odds Are It's REALLY Bothering Me.
Like I mentioned in the first point, we are always experiencing some sort of symptom. Because of this, we've grown used to going about our lives while dealing with them. Meaning that if we bring up a symptom, it's likely bothering us to a point that it's impacting us/our ability to do things more than usual.
#ChronicIllness #FunctionalNeurologicalDisorder #Disability #Disabled