It’s not your personality – Impact of Chronic Illness on the Individual
When sick and bedridden I remember feeling (or being told) that “I was negative” or “not fun to be around”. The implication was this was a statement on my personality! I responded with, “If you knew me before this sickness you would see a different me”.
It was refreshing when catching up with old friends because they knew me before I got sick. They could see the difference. I didn’t have to defend myself or “lack of personality”.
It is hard to go through. It is also hard for others to understand how much a long term illness can make your personality seem different.
Since being sick have you been told you are negative? What tips do you have to help deal with misunderstandings?
